In the United States, significant progress has been made in the fight against HIV and AIDS. With advancements in antiretroviral therapy and the effectiveness of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in preventing new cases, there is hope for further reducing the impact of the disease. However, the work is far from over.

Dr. Zandraetta Tims-Cook, a medical professional with a background in HIV prevention and care, shares her insights on the importance of starting conversations about HIV prevention and PrEP.

Starting Conversations About HIV Prevention

It is recommended by the CDC that all sexually active individuals be informed about PrEP, regardless of their demographics or risk factors. Despite the increasing number of people who could benefit from PrEP, only a small percentage actually receive prescriptions for it. This highlights the need for more routine discussions about PrEP and sexual health in general.

Health care providers can make these conversations more comfortable by normalizing discussions about sexual wellness and emphasizing the importance of overall health. By integrating sexual health talks into routine care, providers can create opportunities for meaningful dialogue and education.

Empowering Patients with Options

Offering patients choices when it comes to HIV prevention methods is crucial in empowering them to make informed decisions about their health. The recent FDA approval of cabotegravir, the first long-acting injectable PrEP, provides an alternative to daily pills and has shown promising results in real-world settings.

Patients' preferences and lifestyles play a significant role in their adherence to PrEP. Studies have indicated higher adherence rates with injectable PrEP compared to daily oral pills, with many patients expressing a preference for the injectable option. This underscores the importance of providing patients with options that align with their personal circumstances.

Ending the Epidemic, One Patient at a Time

Despite advancements in HIV prevention and treatment, new cases of HIV continue to emerge. To combat this, it is essential to raise awareness about PrEP and make prevention strategies more accessible to all individuals. By incorporating discussions about sexual health into routine medical care, providers can play a pivotal role in ending the HIV epidemic.

Every patient interaction presents an opportunity to promote HIV prevention and empower individuals to take control of their health. By initiating conversations about PrEP and sexual wellness, providers can contribute to the collective effort of eradicating HIV in our lifetime.

Source: AJMC