What Black Women Need to Know About HIV

December 2, 2024

Black women are disproportionately impacted by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) when compared to other races. We account for less than 15% of the female population but make up more than half of new HIV infections among women in the United States. Of these new HIV infections, 91% were as a result of heterosexual contact.

For Black women, understanding the complexities of HIV is particularly important due to social, economic, and healthcare disparities that heighten our vulnerability. By exploring the latest statistics, some of the causes of HIV disparities, and preventative measures, we hope to empower Black women with the knowledge and tools necessary to take action and help protect their health while advocating for their well-being.

Identifying the Root of HIV Disparities

Black women are disproportionately affected by poverty, lack of access to quality healthcare, and limited educational opportunities. Socioeconomic factors can influence access to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services.

Recognizing and addressing the risks and understanding some of the HIV disparities among Black women is essential in developing targeted interventions to prevent HIV transmission and improve health outcomes.

One challenge lies in the focus of HIV prevention efforts on men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women. Black women should not be left out of these efforts, especially given the alarming statistics regarding new infection rates.

Another challenge exists in the suboptimal use of prescription medication used for HIV medication. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) therapy is a highly effective way to prevent HIV. Due to barriers such as unconscious bias, undermining risk of contracting HIV, fear of side effects, and lack of awareness, Black women may be less likely to be offered or request PrEP therapy.

PrEP Use Among Black Women

PrEP can be highly effective at preventing HIV when taken as prescribed, so why aren’t more women taking it? Previously, HIV prevention efforts focused on human behavior and increasing safer sexual practices. Now, due to advancement in HIV prevention research, the use of medication therapies involving antiretroviral (ART) drugs are used.

PrEP is recommended in many high risk groups including heterosexual women who are HIV-negative and:

Do not consistently use condoms
Have multiple sexual partners
Have an HIV-positive partner
Have been diagnosed with an STD in the past 6 months

Some reasons PrEP use may be lower among Black women include lack of awareness, provider comfort with prescribing for women, and cost especially for uninsured or underinsured individuals. Discuss your options for HIV prevention with your healthcare provider. It may not be obvious to them that you desire PrEP, but it is important that you explore your HIV prevention options.

Take Action

Empowering ourselves with knowledge about HIV helps combat the epidemic within our community. By understanding the unique risk factors, accessing prevention tools like PrEP, and advocating for equal healthcare, we can take proactive steps to protect our sexual health. As Black women, it’s essential to foster open dialogue and promote education and awareness surrounding HIV diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.

One way to contribute to these efforts and advance HIV research diversity is by considering participation in clinical trials, which play a critical role in developing new treatments and prevention methods tailored to the needs of our community.

Deciding to participate in an HIV clinical trial is a deeply personal choice, and it’s important to weigh your options and consult with healthcare professionals. Even if you choose not to join a clinical trial now, you may find opportunities in the future that align with your needs and circumstances. To stay informed about Gilead’s HIV studies and explore your options, click here for more detailed information.