CHAPS is most recognised for its biomedical research and community-based research in the scale-up of voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) for HIV prevention in South Africa and the region. Our current research is informed by contemporary contexts in public health, aimed at providing answers and solutions to existing public health challenges. We offer community-based research and feasibility studies in several areas. We have contributed to several peer-reviewed publications, participated in conferences and we actively participate in workshops and learning and dissemination activities.
CHAPS evolved from the Orange Farm research programme and team that, in the 5 years prior to 2010, had researched and published extensively around the topic of voluntary medical male circumcision. The research and the publications of the Orange Farm team, most notably the randomised controlled trial which demonstrated the 60% protective benefit of medical male circumcision, contributed to the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations in 2007.
Today, CHAPS is most recognised for its biomedical research and community-based research in the scale-up of voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) for HIV prevention in South Africa and the region. However, with both programmatic and research expertise, we are able to offer community-based research and feasibility studies in a number of areas. Our expertise includes efficient clinical scale-up and social uptake of services in multiple public health priority areas. With resident clinical trial expertise, and an in-depth knowledge of regulatory frameworks and GCP principles, coupled with access to clinics and laboratories, CHAPS is ideally placed to undertake all spheres of research with high standards.
CHAPS, supported by the NDoH, was the leading partner on the feasibility, costing and potential integration of Early Infant Male Circumcision into routine public health services. CHAPS provided training for Medical Officers and Registered Nurses on the surgical techniques suitable to Early Infant Male Circumcision. Furthermore, due to our expertise, we have advised regional Ministries of Health on the inception and scale-up of Early Infant Male Circumcision within countries.
In 2021, CHAPS was involved in exciting research projects, partnering with both local and global organisations – the University of Pretoria’s Centre for Sexualities, AIDS and Gender, the University of South Africa’s Institute for Social and Health Sciences, Sediba Hope Medical Centre, THINK SA, ASK AFRICA, Matchboxology, The Aurum Institute and the University of Washington.
