“It is crucial we get the word out about all that is available to help reduce (and hopefully eradicate) HIV. Each and every year, we as advocates, researchers, scientists and doctors have to advance and ‘up the game’ in the fight against HIV. Rectal microbicides is something I remember when it was only in the “what if we could” stages. Now, I am astounded on how far it has come.” –Rita Labbett, MPH
Rita Labbett, a Pittsburgh, PA native, is the Research Recruiter for Project Gel, a RO1 study being conducted under the umbrella of the Microbicide Trials Network (MTN). In her role at Project Gel, she will recruit participants for a longitudinal acceptability and adherence study of a placebo gel, including clinical and behavioral evaluations.
Labbett was introduced to IRMA by fellow advocate Dr. Ian McGowan, and as an IRMA advocate is excited to be in such great company. Besides recruiting for studies with MTN, Labbett studies the behavioral aspects of safer sex and microbicide acceptance. She is even including rectal microbicide use as a sub-topic for her Ph.D. dissertation on sexual health behaviors and myths surrounding sexual health.
When she’s not working, Labbett spends time with her busy son, Michael and loves cooking and dancing hip hop.
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