Addressing HIV and Substance Use Health Disparities among Racial/Ethnic Minority Individuals

Advances in HIV testing, prevention, and treatment, alongside increased awareness and harm reduction efforts for substance use disorder (SUD) have improved care and treatment access over the past decade. However, racial and ethnic minorities with SUD and HIV or at risk for HIV still face disproportionately high health disparities. Understanding and addressing the reasons behind these disparities is crucial.

Structural and systemic barriers continue to negatively impact minoritized communities, due to lack of access to care, mistrust, and feelings of ostracization. Disconnected systems for HIV and SUD treatment complicate combined care. Delays in HIV diagnosis and viral suppression reduce life expectancy for minority populations by around 10 years. Healthcare systems need to become more integrated, accessible, and culturally welcoming to marginalized communities. Promising interventions utilizing technology, harm reduction, and mobile service delivery can reduce barriers and improve outcomes for minority individuals.