#PrEP

A groundbreaking HIV prevention injection, Yeztugo (lenacapavir), recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, promises to significantly reduce new infections worldwide, including in Southeast Asia. Experts say this long-acting, twice-yearly shot could help overcome challenges associated with daily HIV-prevention pills, potentially transforming the fight against HIV/AIDS. However, questions about accessibility, cost, and implementation remain—issues of particular concern for middle-income countries like Thailand.

For Thais, HIV remains a chronic social and public health issue. Despite major progress in prevention and treatment, approximately 5,000 new HIV infections occur annually, according to the Department of Disease Control and UNAIDS (UNAIDS Thailand). While daily pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) pills—such as Truvada and Descovy—have been available, adherence is often hindered by stigma, cost, and the burden of taking medicine every day. Yeztugo aims to change that with a simple regimen: two oral doses followed by a subcutaneous injection every six months.

For many people, the relationship with their doctor is one of trust and vulnerability—especially when it comes to sexual health. Yet recent personal narratives and research highlight that changing healthcare providers, particularly gynecologists, can be an act of self-empowerment that leads to better sexual health outcomes. This trend, spotlighted by a widely shared article titled “Firing My Gynecologist Was Good for My Sexual Health” on TheBody.com, underlines a growing movement where patients prioritize their own wellbeing and dignity over tradition or habit.