1285. PrEP Acceptability, Uptake, and Adherence Among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men and Transgender Women in PrEP Demonstration Project, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Abstract

BackgroundYoung men who have sex with men (YMSM) and transgender women (YTGW) are at high risk for HIV acquisition. In attempt to end the HIV epidemic, the comprehensive HIV prevention packages should be offered. However, the PrEP persistent among this population in western studies was low. The acceptability, uptake and persistent among Thai YMSM/YTGW PrEP clients were explored.MethodsThis is a sub-study of PrEP implementation project in Chiang Mai Thailand which was conducted during December 2015–February 2017. In the main study, PrEP@PIMAN, 105 participants who were 18 years and older, able to read and write in Thai, creatinine clearance ≥60 mL/minute, negative urine protein, and HBs-Ag-negative YMSM/YTGW were enrolled. Twelve months of PrEP along with quarterly visit and comprehensive HIV prevention package were offered. The data were collected through interview and computer-assisted self-interview. Each participant voluntary made their own decision about PrEP uptake.ResultsSixty participants (57% of the main study) were youth, aged 16–24 years old. Of those, 82% were gay men and 12% were TGW (self-identified). Mean age was 21 years old and 80% were university/college students. At baseline, median partner in past 3 month was 3 (range 0–52). Approximately one-fourth of the participants reported history of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and 8% has positive TPHA at baseline. Majority (72%) initiated PrEP with 70% at the enrollment 2% during the study. PrEP was discontinued in 25% (10/42) due to nonserious side effects, participant preference or lost to follow-up (see Figure 1). The retention rate at 12 month were 70%. PrEP use was not consistent (see Figure 2). Only 30% reported adherence ≥60% (or equivalent to ≥4 pills/ week) throughout the study period. There was no seroconversion during 49 person-year of follow-up with 5 confirmed new STDs (incidence of 10/100 person-year).ConclusionThis project demonstrated a good uptake with varying PrEP adherence rate among Thai YMSM and YTGW. The PrEP persistent was persistence could be improved. Further interventions and strategies should be explored to enhance PrEP adherence among this population. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.