Nesterov R.S., Popova A.A. Experience with pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV infection in Russia: results of a longitudinal sociological study. Epidemiоlоgy and infectious diseases. Сurrent items. 2026. No. 3. Pp. 51-55. DOI: 10.18565 ...

Abstract

HIV infection is a serious challenge to global public health. Despite significant advances in HIV prevention, testing, and treatment, the incidence of the disease continues to rise, negatively impacting public health.Objective. Assessment of the need for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV in Russia among men with risky sexual behavior.Materials and methods. From 2021 to 2025, monitoring at the Charitable Foundation for Support of Social Initiatives and Public Health was conducted. The study included surveys of individuals who initiated HIV PrEP at four checkpoints: baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months.Results. Overall PrEP adherence demonstrated a steady increase: from 76.5% in 2021 to 96.1% in 2025. Concurrently, the proportion of respondents using a situational medication regimen increased: from 63.2% in 2021 to 88.4% in 2025.Conclusion. The study demonstrated high demand for HIV PrEP programs among key populations and identified key trends related to adherence, motivation, behavior patterns, and barriers to PrEP use.