THE PrEP SURVEY

There were 622 respondents to the survey, of which 97% were male. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication shown to dramatically reduce the risk of contracting HIV (over 85%), was made available, on private prescription, through Irish pharmacies last December for the first time.

AWARENESS AND USE OF PREP

30% of those surveyed either did not know or were unsure if PrEP was available in Ireland.

One third of 24 to 30-year olds (33%) – a key target group for HIV risk reduction strategies – were not aware or were unsure that PrEP was available in Ireland.

“The fact that this life-changing medication is still only available to private patients remains an issue for those who are seeking to access it. Decision-makers here need to consider this barrier and look to other countries who have recognised the many beneits to supporting a risk reduction approach to HIV.

Sandra Gannon, General Manager of Teva

STI TESTING

STI Testing is an essential part of safeguarding each person’s sexual and overall health. For those using PrEP, STI testing every three months is a requirement.

The survey found that just 18% of respondents have an STI test at least every three months, 24% do so every six months, 38% at least once a year, but 19% rarely or ever do.

65% of those surveyed said that HIV is a topic of conversation amongst their peers.

Almost three in five (58%) said they would tell a new partner their HIV status before having sex.

USE OF CONDOMS

55% of those surveyed bring condoms with them on a date, while 43% of respondents would not expect their date to bring condoms.

While PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy, and it is not a cure for HIV, it is recognised as a powerful HIV tool when combined with condoms and other methods.

A new Campaign, PrEPLoveLife has been launched to increase awareness of the groundbreaking HIV medication. Visit www.PrepLoveLife.ie for more. This disease prevention campaign is supported by Teva Pharmaceuticals Ireland.