Sandra Rushwaya

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) continues to be a major public health issue in the United Kingdom. Black African Heterosexual Women (BAHW) are disproportionately affected by HIV as they have higher new infections compared to all other subpopulation groups. Despite the high proportion of new HIV infections, BAHW still experience high missed opportunities for HIV testing and prevention methods such as use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). PrEP has contributed to a decline in new HIV infections among various sub-population groups. There is still limited understanding on the barriers and facilitators to the uptake of oral PrEP among BAHW in England. This study seeks to explore the experiences and perceptions of BAHW on the uptake, continuation of PrEP  In addition, the study will also increase the understanding of the barriers and facilitators of uptake, adherence and effective use of PrEP.