Search

Given high levels of new HIV infection globally, calls have been made for greater attention to the cultural variables that hinder prevention and testing. However, no reviews exist to systematise the findings. This study aimed to identify the cultural variables associated with three HIV preventive behaviours (condom use, HIV testing behaviour, and injection drug use with non-shared or sterilised syringes) among young Latin Americans. A systematic review was conducted guided by PRISMA-P criteria, on five databases (Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Medline and Scielo), which identified 2474 articles. Scientific articles and empirical studies that addressed cultural variables and HIV preventive behaviours among young people aged 15-24 years of age using Latin American samples were selected, with 37 articles being included in the final review. Six key cultural variables: the importance of female virginity; the role of trust in the couple's relationship; the disorienting effects of romantic love; the role of subjective norms; the importance of decision-making norms; and impulse control beliefs. Gender norms provide a framework for understanding sexual decision-making among young Latin Americans. Although young people have begun to adopt more egalitarian views of gender norms, deep-rooted beliefs about gender, sexuality and relationships continue to impact on HIV prevention behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the beginning of the HIV epidemic in the USA, effective interventions to reduce HIV risk among cisgender women have been lacking. Although oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective in pharmacologically preventing HIV infection, there is a gap between the recommended use of PrEP and PrEP uptake among eligible women. This study aimed to identify the role of patient-provider communication in PrEP decision-making among women considering PrEP. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 41 PrEP-eligible women in Philadelphia and New York City. A thematic analysis of the responses was conducted, and a conceptual model developed and confirmed as analysis continued. Of the women interviewed, 53.6% were African American and 29.3% were Latina. Women noted that having a trusting relationship with their health care provider, receiving a tailored recommendation for PrEP based upon their specific needs and using their health care provider as support were crucial facilitators of PrEP decision-making. Lack of provider knowledge about PrEP, perceived health care provider stigma about their drug use and sexual activity, and lack of care continuity were all identified as barriers to effective communication. Study findings can inform future interventions to enhance patient-provider communication about PrEP and increase PrEP uptake among women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]