Despite decades of progress in HIV prevention and treatment, women—especially women of color—remain disproportionately affected by the epidemic in the United States. In 2022, women made up one in four people living with HIV and 18% of new diagnoses. Among these, Black women accounted for 50% and Latinas for 20% of new cases among females aged 13 and older.
In New York State, women represented 21% of new HIV infections, and in New York City, 18%. Transgender women added another 3%, with 42% of those cases among Black women and 48% among Latinas. These numbers underscore a persistent and troubling disparity.
Stigma continues to be a major barrier. Many women living with HIV fear judgment or rejection, which discourages them from seeking testing or care. This stigma, combined with systemic inequities, leaves many without access to life-saving prevention tools.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective method to prevent HIV transmission, yet women are vastly underrepresented among its users. Only 8% of PrEP users in the U.S. are women, and fewer than 10% of prescriptions go to them. However, newer injectable forms of PrEP are showing promise. Women make up 12.5% of injectable PrEP users, compared to just 7% of oral PrEP users, suggesting a preference for more discreet and flexible options.
Still, access remains a challenge. Underfunded public health programs and restrictive healthcare policies limit availability, especially for uninsured or underinsured women. Without prioritizing women in HIV prevention strategies, these disparities will persist.
Community-centered education and culturally relevant outreach are essential. “Investing in the health of women is not just a matter of individual well-being—it is a step toward ending the HIV epidemic for everyone.”
See: “Prioritizing Women for HIV Prevention and Treatment” (March 10, 2025)
