HIV Prevention Among Transgender Populations: Knowledge Gaps and Evidence for Action

Curr HIV/AIDS Rep. 2017 Aug;14(4):141-152. doi: 10.1007/s11904-017-0360-1.

Abstract

Purpose of review: The purpose of this review is to summarize the available evidence-based HIV prevention interventions tailored for transgender people.

Recent findings: A limited number of evidence-based HIV prevention interventions have been tested with transgender populations. Most existing interventions target behavior change among transgender women, with only one HIV prevention program evaluated for transgender men. Studies addressing biomedical interventions for transgender women are ongoing. Few interventions address social and structural barriers to HIV prevention, such as stigma, discrimination, and poverty. Evidence-based multi-level interventions that address the structural, biomedical, and behavioral risks for HIV among transgender populations, including transgender men, are needed to address disparities in HIV prevalence. Future research should address not only pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake and condom use but also structural barriers that limit access to these prevention strategies.

Keywords: Behavioral interventions; Biomedical interventions; HIV prevention; Stigma; Structural determinants; Transgender.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis
  • Safe Sex
  • Transgender Persons*