November 1, 2011
The authors of the current study set out to identify factors that may facilitate or impede future adoption of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV infection among gay and bisexual men in HIV-serodiscordant relationships.
This qualitative study used semistructured interviews of a multiracial/-ethnic sample of 25 gay and bisexual HIV-serodiscordant male couples (50 individuals). The participants were recruited from community settings in Los Angeles. To identify major themes relating to future adoption of PrEP for HIV prevention, the researchers used a modified grounded theory approach.
"Motivators for adoption included protection against HIV infection, less concern and fear regarding HIV transmission, the opportunity to engage in unprotected sex and endorsements of PrEP's effectiveness," the team reported. "Concerns and barriers to adoption included the cost of PrEP, short- and long-term side effects, adverse effects of intermittent use or discontinuing PrEP and accessibility of PrEP. The findings suggest the need for a carefully planned implementation program along with educational and counseling interventions in the dissemination of an effective PrEP agent."