Attitudes and Beliefs of Implementing Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in Correctional Facilities (2023)

Undergraduates: Elizabeth Banyas, Madelaine Castleman, Husnah Rahim

Faculty Advisor: Becky White
Department: University of North Carolina School of Medicine Institute for Global Health and Infectious Disease

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The HIV prevalence is 3-5 times greater among individuals involved in the U.S. correctional system than the general population. Despite this, incarcerated individuals have poor access to the most effective biomedical prevention tool, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). This study aimed to explore the attitudes and beliefs of formerly incarcerated individuals about PrEP initiation in correctional facilities. We conducted 14 in-depth qualitative interviews with recently released clients participating in a formerly incarcerated transitions program in the southern United States. We identified several themes from our interviews. These themes included a lack of information regarding PrEP during incarceration, risky behaviors during incarceration and post-release, and anticipated post-release challenges. In addition, formerly incarcerated individuals desire more education about PrEP, its use, and its administration during incarceration. They also want to learn about HIV prevention measures. Finally, they believe initiating PrEP in prison would allow a seamless transition to post-release health programs. In conclusion, initiating PrEP during incarceration is one strategy to increase access to one of the most influential biomedical prevention tools amongst underserved correctional populations.

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