“Protected Means Armed”: Perspectives on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Among Women Who Engage in Sex Work and Use Drugs in Kazakhstan
Year: 2023
Type: article
Abstract: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention has recently become available in Kazakhstan, but women engaged in sex work who use drugs (WESW-UD) could benefit from tailored approaches to support uptake and adherence. To better understand how best to support WESW-UD at each stage of the PrEP continuum (awareness, acceptability, uptake, and adherence), we analyzed data from 30 in-depth interviews and four focus groups with 48 WESW-UD from two cities in Kazakhstan. We conducted thematic analysis to characterize perceptions, barriers, and motivators within each step of the PrEP continuum. Participants reported low awareness, but high interest in PrEP. Motivating factors included optimizing health and increased confidence. Participants expressed many preferences and concerns regarding PrEP modality and delivery. Participants also described how organizational mistrust and social support can prevent or facilitate PrEP uptake or adherence. Kazakhstan's scale-up of PrEP should consider the needs and preferences of WESW-UD to ensure equitable access.
Source: AIDS Education and Prevention
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: National Institute on Drug Abuse
Awards: Implementation of PrEP for Women Who Inject Drugs through Practice Facilitation in Primary and Reproductive Health Care, Peer-based HIV Self-testing among High Risk Women Who Inject or Use Drugs in Kazakhstan, Central Asia, Training Program on HIV and Substance Use in the Criminal Justice System
OpenAlex ID: W4387660974