PrEP: The Knowledge Gap Among Brazilian Healthcare Workers

In the bustling city of Campo Grande, Brazil, healthcare workers are on the frontlines of HIV prevention. The city offers free pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to those at high risk of HIV infection. Yet, a significant hurdle remains: the knowledge and perception of PrEP among healthcare professionals. This gap can hinder access and use, making it a crucial area to explore. A recent study dug into this issue. Researchers interviewed 372 healthcare workers from various units and services. The majority were from Primary Health Care (PHC) units, female, aged between 30 and 39, heterosexual, and non-white. The study revealed that PrEP knowledge was higher among LGBTQIA+ professionals, those with less than a year of healthcare experience, and those who had a positive perception of PrEP. Moreover, professionals who cared for people living with HIV had a significantly higher positive perception of PrEP. However, PrEP knowledge was lower among those with limited understanding of PrEP. This highlights a critical point: education and awareness are key. Healthcare workers need to be well-informed to effectively promote and provide PrEP to those who need it. The study also found that professionals who saw more patients per day had better PrEP knowledge. This suggests that hands-on experience and exposure to diverse patient populations can enhance understanding and perception of PrEP. Yet, it also raises questions about the training and support provided to healthcare workers, especially those with limited experience. The findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to improve PrEP knowledge and perception. This is especially important in high-impact areas where HIV prevention is crucial. By addressing these factors, healthcare systems can better support professionals and ultimately improve HIV prevention efforts. The study also highlights the importance of understanding the demographics of healthcare workers. The majority were female, non-white, and heterosexual. This diversity can influence how PrEP is perceived and promoted. It is essential to consider these factors when developing educational programs and support systems for healthcare workers.