A public health specialist, Dr. Segun Oyedeji, has stated that older men who remain sexually active can benefit from HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Oyedeji, Principal Consultant with Kent Counsul Ltd, emphasized that age-related conditions such as reduced libido and erectile dysfunction should not exclude older people from accessing HIV prevention medications. He made these remarks at a national training of media personnel on lenacapavir organised by the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS.
Oyedeji explained that some medications used to manage non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension can affect libido and sexual function. However, he noted that newer medicines may have fewer effects on sexual desire. As people grow older, they are likely to develop non-communicable diseases, and the medications used to manage these conditions can impact their libido. Therefore, older people can benefit from PrEP pills, which can provide an additional layer of protection against HIV.
Oyedeji, a certified PrEP Master Trainer with the Federal Ministry of Health and the World Health Organisation (WHO), stressed that sexually active older adults should have access to appropriate HIV prevention services following proper clinical assessment. He cautioned against viewing PrEP medications as protection against every sexually transmitted infection, stating that PrEP pills only protect against HIV, not other STIs. Condoms can provide dual protection by preventing unintended pregnancy and reducing the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
According to Oyedeji, people seeking to commence PrEP must undergo appropriate clinical assessment, including HIV testing and kidney function tests. This assessment is crucial to identify any underlying health conditions that may be exacerbated by PrEP. For instance, individuals with kidney conditions should be cautious when taking PrEP, as it can further compromise their kidney function. Oyedeji emphasized the importance of adhering to the prescribed dosing schedule for oral PrEP and returning for scheduled doses for long-acting formulations.
Oyedeji advised people who may have difficulty adhering to a particular regimen to discuss alternative HIV prevention options with trained healthcare providers. He also urged individuals who believe they may have been exposed to HIV to seek medical attention within 72 hours of exposure to benefit from post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Possible exposure through unprotected sex with a person whose HIV status is unknown and sexual assault are among situations that may require urgent assessment for PEP.
The expert also urged people using hormones or undergoing other medical or cosmetic treatments to disclose their full medical history when seeking PrEP. This information will help clinicians identify possible contraindications and determine the most appropriate prevention option. Additionally, Oyedeji advised people on PrEP to exercise caution with alcohol and avoid taking it alongside medicines. He also encouraged sexually active people to know their HIV status and have an informed understanding of their partner's status.
Oyedeji concluded by emphasizing the importance of understanding the specific protection offered by each HIV prevention method. He encouraged people to take responsibility for their sexual health and seek guidance from trained healthcare providers. By doing so, individuals can make informed decisions about their health and reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Key points to note include:
Key points
- Older men can benefit from HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) despite age-related conditions.
- PrEP medications only protect against HIV, not other sexually transmitted infections.
- Sexually active older adults should have access to appropriate HIV prevention services following proper clinical assessment.
