Routine Discussions Key to Curbing HIV Spread, Says Expert

HIV prevention efforts in the United States have advanced significantly, but ongoing education and access to preventative measures remain vital to ending the epidemic. Experts stress the importance of proactive conversations and patient empowerment to help ensure more people have the knowledge and resources to protect themselves.

Normalizing HIV Prevention Dialogue in Healthcare

Healthcare providers should routinely discuss pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with all sexually active adults and adolescents. This approach, recommended by the CDC, is essential regardless of an individual’s background or sexual activity. This practice helps normalize conversations about sexual health, which can then lead to discussions about preventative options.

Dr. Zandraetta Tims-Cook, in her medical training at Cornell University, was struck by the disproportionate impact of HIV and AIDS on young Black women. This awareness fueled her dedication to HIV prevention and care, emphasizing the need for accessible information and proactive measures.

“I’d like to discuss some things that might feel personal or uncomfortable, but it’s important for your overall health.”

—Dr. Zandraetta Tims-Cook

The CDC now estimates that about 2.2 million people in the U.S. could benefit from PrEP, highlighting the importance of expanding access to these preventative strategies (CDC 2024).

Empowering Patients with Informed Choices

Providing patients with choices is a core tenet of effective healthcare, particularly regarding PrEP. The recent approval of cabotegravir (Apretude), an injectable PrEP option, has broadened the preventative landscape. This gives patients alternatives to daily pills, addressing concerns about adherence, privacy, and individual lifestyles.

Real-world studies show cabotegravir’s effectiveness, with higher adherence rates compared to daily oral PrEP pills. Dr. Tims-Cook has observed that many patients prefer the injectable form, which can simplify their routines and alleviate privacy concerns.

Everyday Action to End the Epidemic

The need for PrEP education is critical. By routinely integrating sexual health discussions into care, healthcare providers can empower patients and drive progress toward ending the HIV epidemic. These interactions help ensure that preventative measures are within reach for everyone.