PrEP in the Latino Community: Andrés Alvarado Avila

To start, if you're a teen taking the time to explore this post, I want to say congrats for taking charge of your health and well-being. It's not always easy, but looking for information, especially about topics like sexual health (including PrEP), is a huge step forward. In a world where discussions around sexual health can often be surrounded by stigma, especially for LGBTQ+ teens, your curiosity and proactive approach deserve to be celebrated!

Today's topic focuses on PrEP and its significance for the Latino community. But first, let me introduce myself. I'm Andrés, and for the past five years, I've been working with research teams that work on developing and testing online programs that empower teens to take control of their sexual health. My passion for this kind of research stretches back to my undergraduate years.

Back then, I was struck by the concerning statistics reflecting low healthcare access, including PrEP services, among Latino and Black communities, placed side by side with high rates of diseases like HIV. It became clear to me that the issue wasn't inherent to our communities—it was a systemic failure to adequately support our needs. Determined to make a difference, even if small, I set out on a mission to address these disparities and reduce HIV cases in our communities, especially through the use of services like PrEP along the way.

For us Latinos, the idea of using PrEP might initially scare us, especially when considering cultural factors. Many of us have tight-knit family bonds and profound respect for familial opinions which can make discussions about HIV prevention services like PrEP feel daunting. However, embedded within our culture lies a profound sense of community, loyalty, and familial devotion that can help start conversations about PrEP.

Today, I invite you to reconsider viewing, starting, or exploring PrEP as an act of love for your community and family. How so? By embracing PrEP, you're not just protecting yourself; you're also protecting your community. By taking PrEP as prescribed, you play an important role in preventing the spread of HIV within your community.

Additionally, consider how starting PrEP is an expression of love for your family. Ultimately, our loved ones want to see us thrive in good health. While living with HIV is manageable with medication, it comes with its challenges, including the need to take daily pills or receive injections every couple of months and possible financial burdens (most people should not have to pay anything out of pocket for PrEP or PrEP-related services.). By actively protecting your health with PrEP, you're promising your family that you prioritize your well-being, ensuring you can continue being there for them as the healthiest version of yourself.

Of course, there are various factors that may influence your decision to start PrEP. Perhaps you're concerned about potential stigma or fears of outing yourself (if you identify as queer and in the closet). Access and concerns about cost can also be challenging. The good news is support and resources are available (like this website! Click here for info on teen-friendly PrEP providers in Chicago including clinics that speak Spanish, or here for our FAQs)!

Your worries and concerns are valid, and you deserve to feel empowered in making decisions that align with your needs and values, with support from those around you, including family, friends, and healthcare providers. Regardless of your choice, be proud of yourself for taking this crucial step in exploring campaigns and programs like PrEP4Teens!

If you're interested in staying updated on the research I'm involved in, feel free to follow our lab account on Instagram @teenhealthlab. (and you’re totally already following @prep4teens, right?) Let's continue this journey together towards healthier, empowered communities.

Related: PrEP4Teens is collaborating with David Gauna and ALMA for an arts and advocacy fellowship called ALMA Creates x PrEP4Teens which sought Latino/a/ex youth applicants. The applications are now closed, but we’re excited to share more details in the coming weeks.