September 4th is World Sexual Health Day, and we have some updates on PrEP use.
The latest report from the Kirby Institute brings some encouraging news for Australia’s efforts against HIV. Since PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) was listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in April 2018, uptake has been impressive. Halfway through 2024, an impressive 80,254 folks had accessed PBS-subsidised PrEP at least once.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. The COVID-19 pandemic threw a spanner in the works. In the three months leading up to June 2020, new PrEP initiations took a 45% nosedive, thanks to lockdowns and limited access to healthcare services. Thankfully, as restrictions eased, PrEP dispensing bounced back, showing the resilience of our community.
However, challenges remain. In September 2024, Australia faced a PrEP shortage due to manufacturing and commercial hiccups. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) stepped in, approving the importation of overseas-registered tablets to ease the crunch. During this period, users were advised to plan ahead, possibly visit multiple pharmacies, or consider alternative access methods.
Despite these hurdles, the overall trend is positive. HIV diagnoses have dropped by 33% over the past decade, a testament to the effectiveness of PrEP and other prevention strategies. Yet, disparities persist, particularly among younger individuals, bisexual men, and those in suburban and regional areas. Ensuring equitable access to PrEP across all communities remains a crucial goal.
PrEP has undeniably been a game-changer in Australia’s HIV prevention landscape. As we navigate supply challenges and strive for broader reach, the commitment to making PrEP accessible to all who need it continues to be a top priority.
Link to the PrEP Access Network Website.
