TEMPORAL ANALYSIS OF HIV INDICATORS AND PREP AND PEP IMPLEMENTATION IN BRAZIL (2018–2023)

Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a major public health challenge, requiring effective preventive strategies to reduce new infections. In this context, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) stand out as central tools of combination prevention incorporated into the Brazilian Unified Health System. This study aimed to analyze the impact of PrEP and PEP implementation on HIV control in Brazil from 2018 to 2023. This is an observational, retrospective, descriptive, and quantitative study based on secondary data obtained from official sources of the Ministry of Health. Epidemiological indicators related to new HIV cases, detection rate, active PrEP users, PEP dispensations, and regional and age distribution of cases were analyzed. The results showed a reduction in new HIV cases from 22,626 in 2018 to 16,700 in 2023, accompanied by a decrease in the detection rate from 10.8 to 7.8 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. At the same time, there was a significant increase in active PrEP users, rising from 3,900 to 97,000 during the analyzed period, in addition to increased PEP dispensations. However, regional inequalities and a higher concentration of cases among young adults persisted. It is concluded that the expansion of PrEP and PEP significantly contributed to HIV epidemic control in Brazil, although challenges remain regarding equitable access, adherence, and reduction of social stigma.