PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is an HIV prevention strategy that involves taking antiretroviral medication to prevent infection with HIV. Numerous studies have shown that PrEP is highly effective.
Treatment guidelines help define in which situations PrEP is indicated (for example, based on age, number of sexual partners, drug use, STBBI history, etc...)
PrEP is indicated for roughly 50% of Engage participants. Between 2017-2018, 15% of the guys for whom PrEP was indicated reported taking it (either on-demand or continuously) in the six months leading up to their study visit. In 2019-2020, this proportion more than doubled to 36%.
Check out maprep.org for information and resources about PrEP in Québec [French only].
To learn more about PrEP, check out the following documents:
Please note that our infographics are only available in French.
The following data were collected from gay, bi, and trans guys who participated in the Engage Study in 2018.
Half (48%) of guys had been tested for HIV at least once in the 6 months leading up to the study visit. This proportion is higher amongst participants who are younger than 40 years old and among those who had more male sexual partners in the 6-month period.
Age Group | Proportion of participants who had at least one HIV test in the 6 months leading up to the study visit |
18-29 years | 51 % |
30-39 | 57 % |
40-49 | 35 % |
50-59 | 41 % |
60+ | 32 % |
Number of male sexual partners in the 6 months leading up to the study visit | Proportion of participants who had at least one HIV test in the 6 months leading up to the study visit |
1 | 34 % |
2-4 | 41 % |
5 et plus | 60 % |
What are the benefits to getting tested for HIV?
Earlier the infection is detected and treated, the better. Earlier detection and treatment lead to longer survival and improved quality of life. While no treatment can cure HIV infection, treatments today stop the virus’s multiplication and prevents progression to AIDS. In addition, today’s HIV treatments considerably reduce the risk of transmission.
To learn more about the factors that impact access to HIV testing for gay, bi, and trans guys in Montréal, as well as their experience during their most recent test, check out our Dossier, HIV Testing (French only).
Where can I get tested for HIV?