Pre-exposure prophylaxis in Guyana: linking key populations and other vulnerable groups
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objectives: Despite the introduction of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Guyana as an effective HIV prevention tool, its uptake remains low among key and vulnerable populations, such as men who have sex with men, sex workers, and transgender individuals. This study assessed awareness, uptake, and barriers to PrEP among seronegative individuals in Guyana and proposed strategies to improve accessibility and use. Methods: A cross-sectional, mixed-method study was conducted among 90 seronegative adults across Regions 3, 4, 6, and 10. Quantitative data were collected via structured questionnaires, whereas qualitative insights were gathered through interviews and focus group discussions. Statistical analyses (chi-square) and thematic coding were applied. Results: Among participants, 59% were aware of PrEP, primarily through media sources (43%), whereas only 18% had ever been offered PrEP by a health care provider. None of the participants were active users. The key barriers identified were limited access (48%), fear of side effects (27%), and inadequate provider engagement. However, 57% expressed willingness to use PrEP and 74% would recommend it to peers. Conclusions: PrEP awareness in Guyana is moderate but constrained by systemic barriers, misinformation, and health care inaccessibility. Strengthening provider training, integrating PrEP into routine services, and community outreach are essential to improve uptake.
Source: IJID Regions
Authors: Alisa Khan, Tariq Jagnarine
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,380
OpenAlex ID: W4417178166