Factors Correlated with Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Awareness and Use among Black Adults in the United States: Implications for Improving PrEP Uptake

Abstract

In the United States, low rates of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) awareness and utilization persist among Black adults. To date, few studies have assessed PrEP awareness and use among a nationally representative sample of Black adults. The present study explored factors associated with PrEP awareness and use among Black adults in the United States. Most participants were unaware of PrEP (71%). Those reporting a history of incarceration [aOR 1.73 (1.04, 2.90), p <.05] and lifetime sexually transmitted infection testing [aOR 1.76 (1.19, 2.59), p <.05] had greater odds of awareness. In the sample, only 6% of participants had ever taken PrEP. Those with a history of incarceration [aOR 9.96 (2.82, 35.14), p <.05], concurrent sexual partners [aOR 1.09 (1.00, 1.18), p <.05], and substance use during sex [aOR 4.23 (1.02, 17.48), p <.05] had greater odds of use. Interventions to improve PrEP uptake among Black adults must consider the contextual factors associated with awareness and use.