Facilitators and barriers to PrEP use among straight and LGB young adults experiencing homelessness

Abstract

Abstract Young adults experiencing homelessness (YAEH) are up to 12 times more likely to contract HIV than their housed peers. One important HIV prevention tool is pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), though few studies examine YAEH PrEP use, particularly among those who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB). This study surveyed 160 YAEH about sexual risk behaviors, knowledge about and interest in using PrEP, and facilitators and barriers to PrEP use. Chi-Squared tests assessed if participants varied on these factors by sexual orientation. LGB YAEH were more likely to have heard of and be interested in using PrEP, as well as report access to free sexual healthcare, counseling about sex life, and concerns about possible medication interactions if they became HIV + as important motivating factors for PrEP use. Straight YAEH were more likely to report concerns about PrEP protectiveness as important. These findings, though preliminary, have important implications for YAEH HIV prevention programs.