Understanding Perceptions to Improve Intervention: HIV Risk Behavior, Testing and Prep Uptake Among Male African...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• HIV Prevention
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Justice-involved young adult (JIYA) men face elevated HIV risks.
• Limited access to HIV services and testing hinders effective prevention strategies for JIYA men.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand HIV testing behaviors, motivations, facilitators, and barriers among JIYA men.
• To inform the development of targeted HIV prevention interventions for JIYA men within the justice system.

Main Methods:

• Conducted in-depth interviews with 17 JIYA men.
• Held a focus group with 9 staff members from alternative sentencing programs (ASPs).
• Explored HIV risk perception, testing uptake, and knowledge of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP).

Main Results:

• JIYA men showed a disconnect between perceived HIV risk and actual behaviors.
• Participants reported limited knowledge of PrEP and its accessibility.
• Identified individual, environmental, and structural barriers to HIV testing.

Conclusions:

• The justice system presents a critical opportunity for HIV intervention among JIYA men.
• Targeted interventions are needed to address barriers and promote HIV testing and prevention.
• Integrating HIV services into alternative sentencing programs can improve health outcomes for JIYA men.