Perceptions of people who inject drugs towards HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in Australia.

Background People who inject drugs (PWID) are a priority for HIV prevention. This study aimed to determine perceptions, potential eligibility and willingness to use PrEP among PWID in Sydney.<bold>Methods: </bold>Clients completed a cross-sectional survey to collect data on demographics, perceived risk of HIV and willingness to use PrEP, which were then analysed.<bold>Results: </bold>Twelve (7%) of 172 HIV-negative participants were eligible for PrEP under current guidelines for injecting reasons, of whom three would also be eligible for sexual risk, leaving nine (5%) eligible for injecting reasons alone. Half had heard of PrEP and, of these, 65% would consider taking it. Most (88%) thought they would continue using needle syringe program services. A minority (8%) indicated they may be likely to share needles and syringes or be less concerned about injecting partners' HIV status (26%).<bold>Conclusions: </bold>Although PrEP will benefit a small proportion of PWID, this may equate to a significant number nationally. Policy development around PrEP incorporating affected populations will best support the community of people currently injecting to keep rates of HIV low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]