Cultural Clues: Boosting Long‑Acting PrEP for Latino LGBTQ Men
Latino Men and the Fight Against HIV: A Community‑Driven PrEP Campaign
Higher risk, lower access
Latino men who have sex with men across the United States face a higher chance of contracting HIV compared to other groups.
Pre‑exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can cut that risk by more than half, yet many in this community still encounter barriers—stigma, lack of information, language gaps, and limited culturally sensitive health services.
A new study takes a grassroots approach
Instead of generic messages, researchers asked Latino LGBTQ men how best to spread the word about a new kind of PrEP: long‑acting injectable shots that only require a dose every few months.
The goal was to create recommendations that feel authentic, respectful, and relevant to everyday life in Latino communities.
How the ideas were gathered
- Focus groups
- Interviews
- Community forums
Participants emphasized:
- Using Spanish terminology that feels familiar
- Featuring role models from within the community
- Highlighting how injectable PrEP fits into busy schedules
They also stressed that outreach should happen in trusted spaces—local clinics, community centers, and social media channels popular among younger audiences.
Key strategies that emerged
- Clear, culturally appropriate language – avoid medical jargon
- Real stories of Latino men benefiting from LAI PrEP – build trust and relatability
- Partnerships with local leaders, faith groups, and LGBTQ organizations – broaden reach
- Bilingual information (Spanish & English) – reflect the bilingual reality of many families
- Convenience and safety messaging – highlight fewer injections, address side‑effect fears, and discuss cost
These community‑driven ideas aim to reduce misinformation, increase awareness, and ultimately raise uptake of long‑acting PrEP among Latino men who have sex with men.
A potential model for the future
If successful, this campaign could serve as a blueprint for other culturally tailored health interventions that bridge the gap between science and everyday experience.
