# Optimizing PrEP uptake among Latino MSM in Puerto Rico: A comparative effectiveness study

> **NIH NIH U54** · UNIVERSITY OF PUERTO RICO MED SCIENCES · 2022 · $441,822

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is up to 99% effective in reducing the risk of HIV through sexual
exposure. Studies in high-prevalence settings have found a significant association between PrEP
uptake and a decline in HIV incidence. In the U.S., Latino men who have sex with men (MSM)
have high HIV prevalence rates. However, PrEP awareness and uptake are significantly less
compared with White MSM. Puerto Rico has one of the highest HIV rates and the lowest PrEP
uptake in the U.S. To have an impact on the HIV epidemic, priority groups for the Ending the HIV
Epidemic Initiative including Latino MSM, need to have access to PrEP. Behavioral interventions
can improve PrEP uptake among MSM, but we still need to identify the best delivery method for
implementing interventions to enhance PrEP uptake. After the COVID-19 pandemic, increased
use of online tools might impact interventions delivery for health outcomes. Given the HIV
incidence among MSM and the health disparities that hinder HIV prevention efforts for this
population, adequate PrEP uptake is fundamental to end the HIV epidemic in Puerto Rico. There is
an urgent need to optimize PrEP to prevent new HIV transmissions. The proposed study employs
Comparative Effectiveness Research approach and will be guided by the PrEP care continuum
framework and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to reduce
barriers for PrEP uptake among MSM in Puerto Rico through the following specific aims: 1. Aim 1.
To develop a motivational interviewing intervention, we refer to as "ConPrEP" to be tested for
efficacy of PrEP uptake between face-to-face or online formats. Latino MSM in Puerto Rico. Based
on previous intervention research, we will develop the ‘ConPrEP’ intervention to increase PrEP
uptake among MSM using two modalities: face-to-face and online. The development of the
intervention will be guided by three previous interventions and employ Motivational Interviewing for
behavior change, proven to improve HIV prevention and health outcomes. Aim 2. To assess and
compare the effectiveness of the ‘ConPrEP’ intervention for each modality (face-to-face and
online) on increasing PrEP uptake among Latino MSM in Puerto Rico. We will employ a
randomized control design to determine effectiveness and compare delivery modalities of the
behavioral intervention. Outcomes between both modalities will be compared. The goal is to
reduce new HIV infections by increasing PrEP uptake in a highly affected population. Research
findings will help advance EHE efforts to optimize PrEP among Latino MSM in a priority
jurisdiction.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10556250
- **Project number:** 2U54MD007600-36
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF PUERTO RICO MED SCIENCES
- **Principal Investigator:** Souhail M Malave-Rivera
- **Activity code:** U54 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $441,822
- **Award type:** 2
- **Project period:** 1997-09-01 → 2027-05-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10556250

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10556250, Optimizing PrEP uptake among Latino MSM in Puerto Rico: A comparative effectiveness study (2U54MD007600-36). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-27 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10556250. Licensed CC0.

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