In a concerning trend, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about half of Black gay and bisexual men will receive an HIV diagnosis during their lifetime. This stark statistic highlights the persistent health disparities affecting this community, even as effective preventive treatments like PrEP (preexposure prophylaxis) are available.
Despite being disproportionately affected by HIV, Black gay and bisexual men have one of the lowest rates of PrEP usage across all age groups. The Southern United States, which has the highest number of people living with HIV, also sees very low PrEP uptake due to factors such as stigma, cost, and homophobia.
A recent study in Iowa, a rural state with growing HIV infection rates among sexual and gender minorities, shed light on the barriers to PrEP access. Researchers interviewed HIV-negative Black gay and bisexual men aged 20 to 42 in Johnson and Black Hawk counties, areas with some of the highest HIV infection rates in the state.
The study revealed multiple obstacles, including concerns about trust in intimate relationships, fear of stigma within the gay community, negative experiences with healthcare services, inadequate medical insurance, and lack of knowledge about PrEP. Some participants also expressed worries about potential side effects and the long-term effectiveness of the medication.
To address these disparities, participants suggested increased public health awareness and education about PrEP through various channels, including radio, flyers in public spaces, and culturally sensitive educational programs. They also emphasized the importance of providing PrEP regardless of insurance status and leveraging the influence of trusted physicians to promote its use.
See “Half of Black Gay Men Will be Diagnosed With HIV, Despite Preventive Treatments. Why?” (September 26, 2024)
