Specialization
HIV, pre-exposure prophylaxis, sexually transmitted infections, public health, outreach to marginalized groups
Focus of research
I do research focussing on the implementation of HIV Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). This startedin 2015 when we initiated the Amsterdam PrEP Project (AMPrEP) at the GGD Amsterdam, following 370 men who have sex with men and transgender persons starting and using PrEP. We focus on adherence, behavioural change, incidence of sexually transmitted diseases, side effects, and cost-effectiveness. Currently, we evaluate outcomes of long-term (>4 years) PrEP use and effects related to the broader national PrEP program.
In 2022 we saw an outbreak of mpox, mainly sexually transmitted among men who have sex with men. To better understand this outbreak and be prepared for future outbreaks, we cooperate in research projects with several partners. We focus on clinical characteristics, willingness to vaccinate, vaccination responses, and modelling.
Access to care for transgender people is often percieved as low compared to other groups, however, many reports suggest an evelated risk for HIV infection. We study outcomes of HIV care, perceived barriers to care, and we evaluate outcomes of the Transclinic, a co-led initiative from community organisation Trans United Europe and GGD Amsterdam, with the aim to provide integrated care for sexual health and hormonal care.