An Assessment of HIV Risk, Perceptions of Risk, and Potential Adherence to Preexposure Prophylaxis Among HIV-Negative...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Prevention
• Substance Use Research

Background:

• People who inject drugs (PWID) are a key population for HIV prevention efforts.
• Understanding risk perception and adherence barriers is crucial for effective interventions.
• Mobile outreach services offer a unique access point for PWID to health services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess HIV risk, risk perception, and potential pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence among HIV-negative PWID accessing mobile outreach services.
• To identify factors influencing PrEP uptake and maintenance in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 93 HIV-negative PWID accessing mobile outreach IVDU services in the Southwestern US.
• Data collected via self-report questionnaires on iPads, covering HIV risk behaviors, perceived risk, and medication beliefs.
• Participants were diverse in ethnicity and age, with varying lengths of IVDU history.

Main Results:

• PWID reported low perceived HIV risk and minimal concern about contracting HIV.
• High rates of comorbidities, substance use, and limited social support were observed.
• Women reported higher risk behaviors and comorbidities compared to men.
• Interest in PrEP was present, but concerns about long-term use and adherence were noted.

Conclusions:

• PrEP adherence among PWID faces significant challenges, including risk perception and adherence barriers.
• Addressing perceived risk, comorbidities, and social support is vital for successful PrEP maintenance.
• Integrated care models within primary care and outreach services may enhance PrEP adherence, particularly for women.