Multipurpose prevention technologies for sexual and reproductive health: Establishing a novel, collaborative way for scientific agenda development

BACKGROUND: Those working to develop prevention methods for unintended pregnancies, HIV and STIs have typically worked in silos. As a result, effective prevention methods that account for more than one of the risks associated with unsafe sex are minimal. Multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) include products that simultaneously prevent unintended pregnancies, HIV and other STIs. The Coalition Advancing Multipurpose Innovations (CAMI) serves as Secretariat for the Initiative for Multipurpose Prevention Technologies (IMPT), an international coalition of experts working to advance the development and introduction of MPTs.

METHODS: To foster cross-disciplinary collaborations and advance the scientific agenda, CAMI.IMPT has identified three priority working groups: the Scientific Agenda Working Group (SAWG); Communications and Advocacy Working Group (CAWG); and Acceptability and Access Working Group (AAWG).

RESULTS: The SAWG considered the alignment of technologically feasible products with ‘ideal' products. In addition, Target Product Profiles (TPPs) define key attributes for MPT products in regions of the world with high unmet need. This collaborative effort informs product developers and donors in pipeline decisions. Simultaneously, the CAWG worked with regional representatives to develop key messages for MPTs in India. In December 2012, CAMI.IMPT helped convene a symposium on MPTs in India to identify research priorities and define an agenda for research relevant to India.

CONCLUSIONS: A collaborative multidisciplinary approach to advancing the scientific agenda for MPTs helps ensure that early in product development, developers listen to end-users and providers as women's needs greatly vary. By working together, CAMI.IMPT members can better advance the development and introduction of MPTs.