What do we know about the impact of social media and online platforms on the uptake and effectiveness of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce HIV infection among adult men in Spain?: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: HIV remains a major global health concern. Despite continued improvements in HIV/AIDS treatment and awareness, HIV transmission rates remain high among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TW) in Spain. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been shown to be highly effective and been implemented in Spain, but uptake remains low among MSM and TW due to barriers, such as stigma and lack of knowledge. This review addresses the efficacy and uptake of using social media and online platforms in understanding PrEP uptake behaviour and treatment adherence, and the use of PrEP as an HIV preventive measure through GSN geo-social networking applications. 

Methods: A scoping review was conducted to search for studies on the impact of social media on the uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among adult men in Spain. The search covered English and Spanish resources and articles published from year 2014. The review followed Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework for scoping reviews. Four electronic databases were used in this review: PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Dialnet. Additionally, an exploration of grey literature, alongside a manual examination of the reference list of the selected studies, was carried out. 

Results: The search found 245 unique sources. The initial screening identified 77 for full-text evaluation, with 13 articles meeting the inclusion criteria for the scoping review. The research studies were carried out exclusively in Spain and involved both Spanish citizens and foreign residents living in the country. Using online forums has been an effective method for sharing experiences, clarifying information and establishing a sense of mutual understanding among PrEP users. Positive results were observed in relation to behavioural alterations, knowledge enrichment, active participation and approval of PrEP as a preventive measure against HIV transmission. 

Conclusion: Social media and online platforms such a mobile apps have been shown to be effective as an intervention strategy for HIV prevention among populations experiencing high-risk sexual behaviours, including MSM and TW. The use of digital platforms, such as online forums, plays a crucial role in reducing social stigmas while improving the dissemination of knowledge and the uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).