Helping Teens Become HIV Conscious

Everyone should be aware of the risks and dangers of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), especially teens. While there have been strides in reducing the spread of the disease, young people are especially vulnerable. A lack of HIV awareness, for instance, can increase the risk of young people contracting the disease. Sexually active teens can be aware of the risks and take steps to stay safe. Perhaps the biggest breakthrough in HIV prevention has been medication to prevent and treat the disease. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a game-changing drug for teens and young adults. Those who are aware can stay safe in the event of anyone engaging in risky sexual behavior.

Have you heard of PrEP?

PrEP is a prescription medication designed to help those without HIV prevent the spread of HIV infection. This is a proactive strategy tailored for HIV-negative but high-risk individuals. PrEP is an antiretroviral drug. By taking the drug, the user has sufficient compounds to block enzymes responsible for replicating the virus in the blood. PrEP is available in a daily oral pill or an injectable form administered every 2 months. The proactive treatment is ideal for staying safe with a sexual partner with HIV or for those who engage in frequent unprotected sex. Individuals with multiple partners, men who have sex with men (MSM), and people who inject drugs (PWID) should also consider PrEP use.

Benefits of using PrEP

Studies show that PrEP is 99% effective in reducing HIV transmission from sex. For PWID, the transmission rate is higher, but prevention is still an amazing 74%. High-risk individuals who take PrEP consistently can stay safe and possibly HIV-free. While the drug is a prescription, there are multiple programs, community health centers, and family planning organizations that can provide the drug. Even some pharmacies can subsidize the drug. When taken consistently, young people can stay protected from the disease. While effective, the drug does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or protect partners who do not take PrEP.

A gamechanger for young people

Teens may be aware of HIV, but many are not fully informed of the best way to prevent the spread of the disease. Becoming aware of this drug can help teens and young adults feel more comfortable and safer. Young people may go through phases of sexual exploration. Some do so unaware of the risks and eventually contract HIV. The drug is a safe, effective way to prevent transmission, especially if there are cases of multiple sexual partners or other risk factors.

It takes more than PrEP

PrEP should be part of a complete knowledge and awareness campaign for teens. Safe sex practices should always be encouraged, as there is always the risk of STIs and pregnancy. Individuals taking PrEP should also have consistent HIV testing. At-home testing is available with fast results. More accurate blood tests are encouraged at least twice yearly. When fully aware, teens and young adults become advocates of HIV prevention, sharing details with friends and even loved ones.

Stay HIV safe, enjoy your youth

Young people still pose a high risk factor for HIV transmission. The chance of infection is especially high in teens who are experimenting with multiple partners or other risky behaviors. With PrEP, the risk of infection or transmission lowers significantly. Partners can still go through exploration and liberation while being advocates for safe sex practices.