Washington, D.C., April 15, 2025 (PAHO) - The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has partnered with Grindr in an initiative to enhance access to key information regarding pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and syphilis. This collaboration seeks to provide educational resources on sexual health while combating misinformation.
“This partnership allows us to deliver clear and accurate information directly to people through platforms already integrated into their daily lives,” stated Hortencia Peralta, Regional Advisor on HIV and STI Prevention. “We are dedicated to providing resources that prevent HIV transmission through the use of PrEP.” In 2024, PAHO launched the campaigns "Better with PrEP" and "Let’s Stop Syphilis," both aimed at promoting prevention and reaching the Paho’s Disease Elimination Initiative objectives, which includes HIV and the transmission of congenital syphilis. Grindr's involvement as a strategic ally will help expand the reach of these educational messages.
About PrEP
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventive medication that significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission. When taken correctly and prescribed by a healthcare provider, these medications can decrease the likelihood of contracting HIV by up to 99%. PrEP is specifically designed for adolescents and adults who do not have HIV but may be exposed to the virus through sexual activity or injectable drug use. According to current WHO guidelines, there are various modalities of oral PrEP, including daily (continuous) and on-demand (intermittent) dosing, alongside options like long-acting injectables and vaginal rings:
Continuous PrEP involves taking antiretroviral medication daily for individuals at risk of HIV acquisition. On-demand PrEP follows a 2-1-1 dosing schedule: one dose is taken between 2 and 24 hours before potential HIV exposure, followed by additional doses at 24 and 48 hours after exposure. It is essential to note that on-demand PrEP is not indicated for individuals undergoing hormone therapy with estradiol-based exogenous hormones and is primarily meant for cisgender men and transgender or gender-diverse individuals assigned male at birth.
Both PrEP modalities are highly effective in preventing HIV. However, access to long-acting injectables remains limited in our region.
About Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection resulting from Treponema pallidum, which can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. This sexually transmitted infection (STI) is spread through contact with infectious sores located on the genitals, anus, rectum, lips, or mouth. Additionally, it can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, resulting in congenital syphilis. The consistent and correct use of condoms can substantially reduce the risk of syphilis infection. The prevention of mother-to-child transmission of syphilis is achievable through timely detection and treatment during pregnancy. Diagnosis typically involves medical history evaluation, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Uncomplicated syphilis can be effectively treated with antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can persist for years, causing serious health issues.
