HIV and Transgender People: HIV Prevention

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There are many HIV prevention strategies available, including condoms; pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP); post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP); as well as interventions focused on risk reduction; adherence to HIV medicine; linkage to, retention in, and re-engagement in care; structural approaches; and engagement in PrEP care. Additionally, for people with HIV, treatment provides substantial benefits for personal health and reduces HIV transmission to others. This is sometimes called HIV treatment as prevention.

HIV Prevention Interventions Among Transgender Women in 7 US Cities, 2019-2020*
HIV prevention interventions can reduce risk behaviors. 61%26#37; of transgender women who do not have HIV participated in an individual or group level HIV prevention intervention.

* Among people aged 18 and older.
Source: CDC. HIV infection, risk, prevention, and testing behaviors among transgender women–National HIV Behavioral Surveillance–7 U.S. Cities, 2019-2020. HIV Surveillance Special Report 2021.

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PrEP Awareness and Use Among Transgender Women in 7 US Cities, 2019-2020*
PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV from sex or injection drug use.

* Among people aged 18 and older.
Source: CDC. HIV infection, risk, prevention, and testing behaviors among transgender women–National HIV Behavioral Surveillance–7 U.S. Cities, 2019-2020. HIV Surveillance Special Report 2021.

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