Knowledge and adherence to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis with ARVs (PrEP) among men who have sex with men in Ba Ria - Vung Tau province in 2021 - 2022

Abstract

A cross - sectional study using the takeall sampling method was conducted among 306 men who have sex with men (MSM) at 2 District Health Centers in Ba Ria Vung Tau province in 2022. The study aimed to describe knowledge and practice of PrEP adherence and related factors of the clients. Research results
showed that there were 87.3% participants obtaining adequate knowledge on PrEP adherence. Regarding practice, the proportion of respondents took the right dose, at the right time, by the right manner at all times were 87.6%, 94.8% and 98.7% respectively. The rate of customers who adhered to treatment was 89.5% (took the right dose, at the right time, by the right manner all times or made only one mistake for each criterion during study month). Study has not found any statistically significant association between some demographic factors as well as knowledge on PrEP of participants with adherence to treatment. Consultation and supporting from service providers to customers during treatment should be prioritized to enhance knowledge on PrEP as well as remind them to take medication with right dose, at right time and by right manner.