HIV and Hispanic/Latino People: Prevention Challenges

Racism, discrimination, HIV stigma, and homophobia have a negative impact on the overall health and well-being of Hispanic/Latino people. Additionally, poverty, migration patterns, lower educational level, and language barriers may make it harder for some Hispanic/Latino people 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 people.

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

• • Knowledge of HIV status. It is important for everyone to know their HIV status. 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.
  • Other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Having another STD can increase a person’s chance of getting or transmitting 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.
  • Mistrust of the health care system. Hispanic/Latino people experience high levels of mistrust of the health care system. Lower levels of trust can reduce the likelihood of clinic visits and result in lower use of and adherence to antiretroviral medications.