NYMC Student Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

4-28-2025

Document Type

Doctoral Dissertation - Restricted (NYMC/Touro only) Access

Degree Name

Doctor of Public Health

Department

Public Health

First Advisor

Dr. Kenneth Knapp

Second Advisor

Dr. Keosha Bond

Third Advisor

Dr. Adam Block

Abstract

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective intervention for preventing HIV infection, yet research has primarily focused on populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM) and cisgender women, leaving heterosexual men (MSW) underrepresented in HIV prevention studies. This study investigates heterosexual men’s awareness of PrEP and their intention to use it, identifying key factors that influence PrEP consideration. A cross-sectional online survey was created and disseminated to heterosexual men across the United States aged 18-45 years, reaching a sample size of 277 respondents, using Qualtrics for recruitment and data collection. Logistic regression was used to assess how variables such as HIV worry and stigma influenced PrEP intention. The findings revealed that concern about contracting HIV (OR=9.52, p=0.00) was a significant predictor of PrEP intention, with men who expressed higher levels of concern were ten times likelier to consider PrEP. Stigma (OR=0.40, p=0.028) served as a barrier, decreasing the likelihood of PrEP usage. These results highlight the need for targeted public health interventions aimed at increasing PrEP awareness, reducing stigma, and enhancing healthcare communication for heterosexual men. Addressing these barriers is crucial to ensuring greater inclusivity in HIV prevention efforts and expanding PrEP accessibility to all at-risk populations.

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

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