Pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly known as PrEP, is a groundbreaking strategy in the fight against HIV/AIDS. It involves the use of antiretroviral drugs by HIV-negative individuals to reduce their risk of contracting the virus. This preventive measure has been a significant addition to the public health toolkit, offering a proactive approach to HIV prevention in high-risk populations.
PrEP is typically administered in pill form and, when taken consistently, has been shown to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV from sexual contact by about 99%. It is also effective in reducing the risk among people who inject drugs. The effectiveness of PrEP hinges on adherence; it must be taken daily to maintain sufficient levels of the medication in the bloodstream to prevent HIV infection.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and various national health bodies recommend PrEP for individuals at substantial risk of HIV infection as part of comprehensive HIV prevention strategies that also include regular HIV testing, condom use, and other preventive measures.
Step to get PrEP
Pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, is a method for preventing HIV infection that involves the following simple steps:
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Risk Assessment: Before starting PrEP, users should undergo a risk assessment with a healthcare professional to determine if PrEP is suitable for them based on their risk of contracting HIV.
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Health Screening: Undergo blood tests to confirm HIV-negative status and a general health check-up, such as liver and kidney function, to ensure it's safe to use PrEP.
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Starting Medication: After completing the health screening and risk assessment, a doctor will prescribe PrEP medication, usually a daily pill, to maintain consistent medication levels in the blood.
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Regular Monitoring: PrEP users need to see their doctor every three months for blood tests and HIV testing, to check internal organ function, and to discuss medication adherence and personal protection strategies.
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Education and Support: Users should be educated about the correct use of PrEP and receive support from healthcare professionals for best practices.
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Using PrEP is an effective way to prevent HIV when followed correctly and consistently, but it should be used in conjunction with other preventive measures such as using condoms and regular HIV testing to maximize effectiveness.
Who should get PrEP
In Thailand that should get PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) for HIV prevention:
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Men who have sex with men (MSM)
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Transgender women
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Sex workers
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Sexual partners of people living with HIV
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Individuals with high-risk behaviors for HIV infection, such as having multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, etc
Call : 093-309-9988
These groups are considered at high risk of acquiring HIV infection, making them priority targets to receive counseling and access to PrEP medication. Organizations and health authorities in Thailand are working to increase PrEP awareness and availability among these at-risk populations.
PrEP allows HIV-negative individuals from these key populations to take a daily pill containing antiretroviral drugs, which can significantly reduce their risk of contracting HIV through sex or injection drug use.
By focusing PrEP initiatives on the highest risk groups first, Thailand aims to make impactful progress in its national HIV prevention strategy and control efforts against the ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic.
PEP in Chiang Mai
Hugsa Medical Clinic Chiang mai
77/7 Khorasan Rd., T.Changklan Muang Chiang Mai Thailand
(Place Near Tha Phae Gate, 2 Minute Walk)
MAP : https://g.page/hugsa-medical?share
Email : hugsacm@gmail.com
Tel : 093-309-9988
Line : @hugsaclinic
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