Long-term HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Trajectories Among Racial & Ethnic Minority Patients: Short, Declining, & Sustained Adherence.

Abstract

HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) requires continued use at an effective dosage to reduce HIV incidence. Data suggest early PrEP drop-off among many populations. We sought to describe PrEP use over the first year among racial and ethnic minority patients in the US. Racial and ethnic minority patients initiating PrEP at a federally qualified health center in Chicago, IL. Using electronic health records, we determined the adherence (≥6 weekly doses) trajectories over the first year of PrEP use and compared baseline and time-varying patient characteristics. From 2159 patients, we identified 3 PrEP use trajectories. Sustained use was the most common (40%) trajectory, followed by short use (30%) and declining use (29%). In adjusted models, younger age, Black race, as well as gender, sexual orientation, insurance status at baseline, and neighborhood were associated with trajectory assignment; within some trajectories, insurance status during follow-up was associated with odds of monthly adherence (≥6 weekly doses). Among racial and ethnic minorities, a plurality achieved sustained PrEP persistence. Access to clinics, insurance, and intersectional stigmas may be modifiable barriers to effective PrEP persistence; in addition, focus on younger users and beyond gay, cismale populations are needed.