Black MSM and PrEP: Challenges and Opportunities

Although estimates of HIV incidence remain relatively stable in the United States (US), the epidemic continues to increase disproportionately among men who have sex with men (MSM). Notably, nearly half of new HIV infections occur in the South, where Black/African American, young MSM (YMSM, 18 to 35) are at greatest risk. PrEP is a highly effective HIV prevention strategy. While the data about its safety and efficacy in this population are encouraging, structural and social barriers that undermine optimal PrEP uptake, as well as suboptimal adherence and retention in PrEP-related, follow-up medical care must be addressed. In this webinar, two leading infectious disease providers and researchers from Mississippi and Alabama will address possible barriers and facilitators of PrEP uptake among Black MSM and highlight novel efforts to deliver PrEP services to Black MSM.