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HIV Prevention
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HIV Prevention

HIV Prevention Strategies

Overview of HIV Transmission

  • Introduction by Del Canto, emphasizing the importance of discussing HIV prevention.
  • Three main transmission routes identified: unprotected sex, sharing drug-use equipment, and perinatal transmission (during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding).

Effective Prevention Strategies

  • Recent advancements in understanding effective tools for preventing HIV have led to three highly effective strategies:
  • Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)
  • Antiretroviral treatment for those living with HIV
  • Consistent use of condoms

PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis)

  • PrEP is a daily pill containing two drugs approved for high-risk individuals to prevent HIV acquisition.
  • Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can be used after potential exposure to reduce transmission risk.

Treatment as Prevention

  • Individuals with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load do not transmit the virus to sexual partners. This concept is known as "Treatment as Prevention" (TasP).

Condom Use

  • Condoms are effective in preventing sexual transmission when used consistently and correctly. Two types exist: male and female condoms.

Drug Use and Harm Reduction

  • Sharing drug-use equipment significantly increases the risk of HIV transmission; using new equipment each time is crucial.
  • The harm reduction approach acknowledges that while abstinence may not be feasible for everyone, practices like needle exchange programs can minimize risks associated with drug use.

Perinatal Transmission Prevention

  • Guidelines exist in Canada to prevent perinatal transmission through maternal medication during pregnancy and labor, along with formula feeding instead of breastfeeding.

Importance of Testing and Awareness

  • Many individuals with HIV are unaware of their status; testing is essential for informed decision-making regarding health and relationships.
  • Regular testing for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, is also important since STIs can increase the risk of transmitting HIV.