Retention and adherence to daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are critical for effective HIV prevention; however, YMSM exhibit lower rates of both compared to other populations. This is important because young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are at higher risk for HIV, and understanding their challenges can help create better support and interventions.
Sarah E. Rutstein, MD, PhD, conducted a review that synthesizes evidence on the facilitators and barriers to HIV PrEP retention and adherence among YMSM, focusing on individuals aged 10 to 29 years. The review adheres to PRISMA-ScR and eMERGe guidelines, examining 14 studies involving 3,178 participants. It emphasizes the complex interactions of individual, interpersonal, community, and societal factors influencing PrEP adherence and retention.