Analysis of Service Utilization and Medication Adherence Among Attendees of HIV Nonoccupational Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Clinics - China, 2022-2024.

INTRODUCTION

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) nonoccupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) clinics are specialized healthcare facilities that provide urgent medical interventions to individuals with potential high-risk HIV exposures. This study analyzed utilization patterns of HIV nPEP services in China and examined factors associated with medication adherence among consultees, providing evidence to inform further implementation and optimization of HIV nPEP interventions.

METHODS

We analyzed nPEP case data collected from the national nPEP data information system between November 1, 2022, and November 1, 2024, using SPSS 29.0 software. Chi-square tests were applied to analyze characteristics of nPEP consultees, and logistic regression models were used to identify factors influencing medication adherence and follow-up compliance among those who initiated treatment.

RESULTS

As of November 1, 2024, 924 nPEP clinics nationwide received 54,108 consultees, with 53,405 (98.70%) initiating medication. Most individuals seeking services were male (88.63%), classified as high-risk (83.11%), and heterosexual with multiple partners (67.66%). The "BIC/FTC/TAF" regimen was selected by 63.07% of recipients. Nearly all users (99.03%) completed medication evaluation within 72 hours post-exposure. Among medication users, 60.34% (30,650) adhered to the full 28-day regimen, and 60.10% (30,509) completed either one-month or three-month follow-ups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified gender, exposure risk assessment results, exposure population classification, individual preferences, and medication regimen as significant factors influencing both 28-day medication adherence and follow-up compliance (<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

nPEP clinic consultees in China are predominantly young male heterosexual individuals with multiple sexual partners, with most selecting the Biktarvy regimen. However, both current 28-day medication adherence and follow-up compliance rates remain suboptimal. High-risk men and those receiving the Biktarvy regimen demonstrate superior medication adherence and follow-up compliance compared to other groups. Further research is needed to develop targeted interventions to improve medication adherence and follow-up rates among nPEP recipients. Enhancing adherence and follow-up should be prioritized in future interventions, supported by continuous monitoring to inform timely intervention strategy adjustments.