Bsgh Lab

Congratulations to Dr. A M Khairul Islam on having TWO abstract papers accepted for oral & roundtable presentations at the APHA 2026 Annual Meeting in Texas!

His research tackles intersectional stigma & minority stress disparities related to HIV.

Gratitude to advisor Prof. Gamji Rabiu Abu-Ba’are and the BSGH Lab at University of Rochester for their support.

We are proud of you Dr. Islam! All the best, as you take the global stage!

📢 BSGH Lab New Research Publication

Our latest study in BMC Public Health explores how HIV Self-Testing (HIVST) can overcome barriers for marginalized communities.

Title: Stigma, privacy concerns, s*xual behaviors, and testing history shape willingness to use HIV self-testing among African refugee men engaged in s*x work in Italy.

Key Takeaway:
Nearly 45% of participants are ready to adopt self-testing, valuing the privacy, autonomy, and convenience it offers over traditional clinic visits.

Why It Matters:
To achieve global health goals, we must meet people where they are. This study emphasizes the need for stigma-sensitive, community-led approaches and free access to self-testing kits to ensure no one is left behind.

Congratulations to the research team:
Gamji Rabiu Abu-Ba’are, Henry Delali Dakpui, Mubarik Sena Saaka, Shamrock Osman Wumpini, Emma Gyamera, Chris Guure, and LaRon Nelson.

Read the full open-access study: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-026-27095-9