HIV and Hispanic/Latino Gay and Bisexual Men: Prevention Challenges

Racism, discrimination, HIV stigma, and homophobia affect the overall health and well-being of Hispanic/Latino gay and bisexual men. Additionally, poverty, migration patterns, lower educational level, and language barriers may make it harder for some Hispanic/Latino gay and bisexual men to seek and receive high-quality health care, including HIV testing, treatment, and other prevention services. Addressing these social and structural barriers and encouraging safe and supportive communities can help improve health outcomes for Hispanic/Latino gay and bisexual men.

Other factors that can increase the chances of getting or transmitting HIV include:

    • Older sex partners. Hispanic/Latino gay and bisexual men are more likely to report that their last sex partner was older, compared to White or African American gay and bisexual men. Having older partners may increase the likelihood of being exposed to HIV because an older partner is more likely to have had more sexual partners or other risks and is more likely to have HIV.
    • Low PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) use. A small percentage of Hispanic/Latino gay and bisexual men reported using PrEP. If taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV.
    • Immigration status. Some Hispanic/Latino people may not use HIV prevention services, get an HIV test, or get treatment if they have HIV due to fear of disclosing their immigration status.
    • Knowledge of HIV status. There is a greater proportion of Hispanic/Latino gay and bisexual men who don’t know their HIV status compared to other Hispanic/Latino groups. People who don’t know they have HIV can’t take advantage of HIV care and treatment and may pass HIV to others without knowing it.
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