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OBJECTIVE: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) disproportionately affect transgender women and travestis (TGW), who often lack access to healthcare due to stigma and discrimination. We describe the approach and methodology of a study investigating the prevalence of syphilis, HIV, hepatitis A, B, and C, Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), and human papillomavirus (HPV) among TGW, as well as their knowledge and perceptions regarding syphilis, to better inform policies to curb STIs among this vulnerable population. METHODS: TransOdara was a multicentric, cross-sectional study conducted among TGW in five capital cities from major Brazilian regions between December 2019 and July 2021. Self-identified transgender women and travestis aged >18 years were recruited using respondent-driven sampling after a qualitative formative phase, completed an interviewer-led questionnaire, were offered a physical examination, and were also asked to provide samples from multiple sites to detect various STIs, starting vaccination and treatment when indicated. RESULTS: A total of 1,317 participants were recruited from the five study locations: Campo Grande (n=181, 13.7%), Manaus (n=340, 25.8%), Porto Alegre (n=192, 14.6%), Salvador (n=201, 15.3%), and São Paulo (n=403, 30.6%). The recruitment period varied at each study location due to logistic constraints imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION: Despite the enormous challenges posed by the co-occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic and field work targeting a vulnerable, elusive, and scattered population, the TransOdara project has been effectively implemented. Caveats did not preclude 1,300 TGW from being interviewed and tested, amid a significant epidemic that disrupted health services and research projects in Brazil and worldwide.

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OBJECTIVE: To understand the narratives of transgender women and travestis (TGW) from four Brazilian cities regarding access to and use of health services. METHODS: Qualitative study carried out within the scope of the TransOdara project, cross-sectional multicenter mixed methods research conducted between 2019-2021. Fifty-two in-depth interviews with TGW in Manaus, Campo Grande, Porto Alegre and São Paulo were analyzed. The analysis was guided by philosophical hermeneutics. RESULTS: Reports of discrimination, stigmatization and pathologization reiterate the difficulties faced by TGW in seeking healthcare. The recurrence of disrespect for the social/corrected name reveals obstacles to the recognition of transgender identities and, in some cases, the intention of inhibiting transsexuality-travestilidade. Other difficulties arise from actions that disregard the health specificities of TGW or the precarious social conditions that affect some of them. On the other hand, based on experiences of respect and adequate care, participants identify an ongoing change, which is expressed in greater availability of services and improved assistance. There is an expectation of continued expansion of services, technologies and training of health professionals. CONCLUSIONS: The identified change has been undertaken at the interface of public health policies with LGBT+ activism and the production of knowledge about TGW health needs. Although the identified advances are insufficient to change the scenario of the historical exclusion experienced by TGW in health services, they point to promising ways to improve their health conditions.

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OBJECTIVE: To analyze the experiences of transgender women and travestis regarding the use of hormones for body changes without a medical prescription. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional, quantitative and qualitative study, using data from "TransOdara", which estimated the prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections in transgender women and travestis recruited through Respondent-Driven Sampling, between December 2019 and July 2021, in São Paulo, Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre, and Salvador, Brazil. The main outcome was: use of hormones without medical prescription and associated risk factors. Descriptive analysis, mixed univariate logistic regression models, and semi-structured interviews were carried out. RESULTS: Of the 1,317 recruited participants, 85.9% had already used hormones. The current use of hormones was reported by 40.7% (536) of them. Of those who were able to inform the place where they obtained them, 72.6% (381/525) used them without a medical prescription. The variables associated with the outcome were: current full-time sex work (OR 4.59; 95%CI 1.90-11.06) or in the past (OR 1.92; 95%CI 1.10-3.34), not having changed their name (OR 3.59; 95%CI 2.23-5.76), not currently studying (OR 1.83; 95%CI 1.07-3.13), being younger (OR 2.16; 95%CI 1.31-3.56), and having suffered discrimination at some point in life for being a transgender women and travestis (OR 0.40; 95%CI 0.20-0.81). CONCLUSION: The use of nonprescribed hormones is high among transgender women and travestis, especially among those who are younger, did not study, have not changed their name, and with a history of sex work. This use is related to the urgency for gender transition, with excessive use and damage to health.

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ABSTRACT Objective: To understand the narratives of transgender women and travestis (TGW) from four Brazilian cities regarding access to and use of health services. Methods: Qualitative study carried out within the scope of the TransOdara project, cross-sectional multicenter mixed methods research conducted between 2019-2021. Fifty-two in-depth interviews with TGW in Manaus, Campo Grande, Porto Alegre and São Paulo were analyzed. The analysis was guided by philosophical hermeneutics. Results: Reports of discrimination, stigmatization and pathologization reiterate the difficulties faced by TGW in seeking healthcare. The recurrence of disrespect for the social/corrected name reveals obstacles to the recognition of transgender identities and, in some cases, the intention of inhibiting transsexuality-travestilidade. Other difficulties arise from actions that disregard the health specificities of TGW or the precarious social conditions that affect some of them. On the other hand, based on experiences of respect and adequate care, participants identify an ongoing change, which is expressed in greater availability of services and improved assistance. There is an expectation of continued expansion of services, technologies and training of health professionals. Conclusions: The identified change has been undertaken at the interface of public health policies with LGBT+ activism and the production of knowledge about TGW health needs. Although the identified advances are insufficient to change the scenario of the historical exclusion experienced by TGW in health services, they point to promising ways to improve their health conditions.

RESUMO Objetivo: Compreender as narrativas de Mulheres Trans e Travestis (MTT) de quatro cidades brasileiras acerca do acesso e do uso de serviços de saúde. Métodos: Estudo qualitativo realizado no âmbito do projeto TransOdara, pesquisa transversal multicêntrica de métodos mistos, conduzida entre 2019 e 2021. São analisadas 52 entrevistas em profundidade com MTT em Manaus, Campo Grande, Porto Alegre e São Paulo. O tratamento analítico foi orientado pela hermenêutica filosófica. Resultados: Relatos de discriminação, estigmatização e patologização reafirmam as dificuldades enfrentadas por MTT na busca por cuidado com a saúde. A recorrência do desrespeito ao nome social/retificado revela obstáculos ao reconhecimento das identidades trans e, em alguns casos, a intenção de inibir a transexualidade-travestilidade. Outras dificuldades decorrem de ações que desconsideram as especificidades de saúde das MTT ou as condições sociais precárias que afetam algumas delas. No entanto, a partir de experiências de respeito e atendimento adequado, as participantes identificam uma mudança em curso, que se expressa em uma maior disponibilidade de serviços e na melhoria da assistência. Há uma expectativa de continuidade da ampliação de serviços, tecnologias e capacitação dos/as profissionais de saúde. Conclusão: A mudança identificada tem sido empreendida na interface das políticas públicas de saúde com o ativismo LGBT+ e a produção de conhecimento acerca das questões de saúde das MTT. Os avanços empreendidos, ainda que insuficientes para mudar o cenário da histórica exclusão vivida por elas nos serviços de saúde, apontam caminhos promissores na melhoria de suas condições de saúde.

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ABSTRACT Objective Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) disproportionately affect transgender women and travestis (TGW), who often lack access to healthcare due to stigma and discrimination. We describe the approach and methodology of a study investigating the prevalence of syphilis, HIV, hepatitis A, B, and C, Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), and human papillomavirus (HPV) among TGW, as well as their knowledge and perceptions regarding syphilis, to better inform policies to curb STIs among this vulnerable population. Methods: TransOdara was a multicentric, cross-sectional study conducted among TGW in five capital cities from major Brazilian regions between December 2019 and July 2021. Self-identified transgender women and travestis aged >18 years were recruited using respondent-driven sampling after a qualitative formative phase, completed an interviewer-led questionnaire, were offered a physical examination, and were also asked to provide samples from multiple sites to detect various STIs, starting vaccination and treatment when indicated. Results: A total of 1,317 participants were recruited from the five study locations: Campo Grande (n=181, 13.7%), Manaus (n=340, 25.8%), Porto Alegre (n=192, 14.6%), Salvador (n=201, 15.3%), and São Paulo (n=403, 30.6%). The recruitment period varied at each study location due to logistic constraints imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: Despite the enormous challenges posed by the co-occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic and field work targeting a vulnerable, elusive, and scattered population, the TransOdara project has been effectively implemented. Caveats did not preclude 1,300 TGW from being interviewed and tested, amid a significant epidemic that disrupted health services and research projects in Brazil and worldwide.

RESUMO Objetivo As infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST) afetam desproporcionalmente as mulheres trans e travestis (MTT), que muitas vezes não têm acesso a cuidados de saúde devido ao estigma e à discriminação. Descrevemos a abordagem e a metodologia de um estudo que investigou a prevalência de sífilis, HIV, hepatite A, B e C, Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) e papilomavírus humano (HPV) entre as MTT, bem como seu conhecimento e percepção sobre a sífilis, para melhor as políticas para redução de IST nessa população vulnerável. Métodos: TransOdara foi um estudo multicêntrico, transversal, realizado em cinco capitais das principais regiões brasileiras entre dezembro de 2019 e julho de 2021. Mulheres autoidentificadas como mulheres trans ou travestis, com idade >18 anos, foram recrutadas usando respondent-driven sampling, após uma fase de pesquisa formativa. Responderam a um questionário conduzido por entrevistadoras. Foi oferecida consulta médica, com exame físico, e solicitou-se que fornecessem amostras de vários locais para detectar as IST citadas. Quando indicado e consentido, foram iniciadas a vacinação e o tratamento. Resultados: Foram recrutadas 1.317 participantes nos cinco locais de estudo: Campo Grande (n=181, 13,7%), Manaus (n=340, 25,8%), Porto Alegre (n=192, 14,6%), Salvador (n= =201, 15,3%) e São Paulo (n=403, 30,6%). O período de recrutamento variou em cada local em razão de restrições logísticas impostas pela pandemia de COVID-19. Conclusão: Apesar dos enormes desafios colocados pela ocorrência simultânea da pandemia da COVID-19 e do trabalho de campo dirigido a uma população vulnerabilizada e dispersa, o projeto TransOdara foi eficazmente implementado. As adversidades não impediram que mais de 1.300 mulheres trans e travestis tenham sido entrevistadas e testadas em meio a uma epidemia de tal magnitude que perturbou os serviços de saúde e os projetos de pesquisa no Brasil e no mundo.

RESUMEN

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the experiences of transgender women and travestis regarding the use of hormones for body changes without a medical prescription. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, quantitative and qualitative study, using data from "TransOdara", which estimated the prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections in transgender women and travestis recruited through Respondent-Driven Sampling, between December 2019 and July 2021, in São Paulo, Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre, and Salvador, Brazil. The main outcome was: use of hormones without medical prescription and associated risk factors. Descriptive analysis, mixed univariate logistic regression models, and semi-structured interviews were carried out. Results: Of the 1,317 recruited participants, 85.9% had already used hormones. The current use of hormones was reported by 40.7% (536) of them. Of those who were able to inform the place where they obtained them, 72.6% (381/525) used them without a medical prescription. The variables associated with the outcome were: current full-time sex work (OR 4.59; 95%CI 1.90-11.06) or in the past (OR 1.92; 95%CI 1.10-3.34), not having changed their name (OR 3.59; 95%CI 2.23-5.76), not currently studying (OR 1.83; 95%CI 1.07-3.13), being younger (OR 2.16; 95%CI 1.31-3.56), and having suffered discrimination at some point in life for being a transgender women and travestis (OR 0.40; 95%CI 0.20-0.81). Conclusion: The use of nonprescribed hormones is high among transgender women and travestis, especially among those who are younger, did not study, have not changed their name, and with a history of sex work. This use is related to the urgency for gender transition, with excessive use and damage to health.

RESUMO Objective Analisar experiências de mulheres trans e travestis com o uso de hormônios para mudança corporal sem prescrição médica. Métodos: Estudo de corte transversal, quantitativo e qualitativo, utilizando um recorte do TransOdara, que estimou prevalência de Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis em mulheres trans e travestis, recrutadas por meio de Respondent-Driven Sampling, entre dezembro de 2019 e julho de 2021, em São Paulo, Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre e Salvador. Principal desfecho: uso de hormônios sem prescrição médica e fatores associados. Foram realizados análise descritiva e modelos de regressão logísticos univariados mistos e entrevistas semiestruturadas. Resultados: Das 1.317 participantes recrutadas, 85,9% já haviam usado hormônios. O uso atual de hormônios foi referido por 40,7% (536) delas. Das que souberam informar o local onde os conseguiram, 72,6% (381/525) faziam uso sem prescrição médica. As variáveis associadas ao uso sem prescrição foram: exercer trabalho sexual em tempo integral (OR 4,59; IC95% 1,90-11,06) ou no passado (OR 1,92; IC95% 1,10-3,34); não ter retificado o nome (OR 3,59; IC95% 2,23-5,76); não estar estudando (OR 1,83; IC95% 1,07-3,13); ser mais jovem (OR 2,16; IC95% 1,31-3,56); ter sofrido discriminação em algum momento na vida por ser mulheres trans e travestis (OR 0,40 - IC95% 0,20-0,81). Conclusão: O uso de hormônios não prescritos é alto entre mulheres trans e travestis, principalmente entre as mais jovens, as que não estudavam, as que não retificaram o nome e as com histórico de trabalho sexual. Está relacionado à urgência para a transição de gênero, com uso exagerado e danos à saúde.

RESUMEN

Objective: To analyze the experiences of transgender women and travestis regarding the use of hormones for body changes without a medical prescription. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, quantitative and qualitative study, using data from “TransOdara”, which estimated the prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections in transgender women and travestis recruited through Respondent-Driven Sampling, between December 2019 and July 2021, in São Paulo, Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre, and Salvador, Brazil. The main outcome was: use of hormones without medical prescription and associated risk factors. Descriptive analysis, mixed univariate logistic regression models, and semi-structured interviews were carried out. Results: Of the 1,317 recruited participants, 85.9% had already used hormones. The current use of hormones was reported by 40.7% (536) of them. Of those who were able to inform the place where they obtained them, 72.6% (381/525) used them without a medical prescription. The variables associated with the outcome were: current full-time sex work (OR 4.59; 95%CI 1.90–11.06) or in the past (OR 1.92; 95%CI 1.10–3.34), not having changed their name (OR 3.59; 95%CI 2.23–5.76), not currently studying (OR 1.83; 95%CI 1.07–3.13), being younger (OR 2.16; 95%CI 1.31–3.56), and having suffered discrimination at some point in life for being a transgender women and travestis (OR 0.40; 95%CI 0.20–0.81). Conclusion: The use of nonprescribed hormones is high among transgender women and travestis, especially among those who are younger, did not study, have not changed their name, and with a history of sex work. This use is related to the urgency for gender transition, with excessive use and damage to health.

Objetivo: Analisar experiências de mulheres trans e travestis com o uso de hormônios para mudança corporal sem prescrição médica. Métodos: Estudo de corte transversal, quantitativo e qualitativo, utilizando um recorte do TransOdara, que estimou prevalência de Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis em mulheres trans e travestis, recrutadas por meio de Respondent-Driven Sampling, entre dezembro de 2019 e julho de 2021, em São Paulo, Campo Grande, Manaus, Porto Alegre e Salvador. Principal desfecho: uso de hormônios sem prescrição médica e fatores associados. Foram realizados análise descritiva e modelos de regressão logísticos univariados mistos e entrevistas semiestruturadas. Resultados: Das 1.317 participantes recrutadas, 85,9% já haviam usado hormônios. O uso atual de hormônios foi referido por 40,7% (536) delas. Das que souberam informar o local onde os conseguiram, 72,6% (381/525) faziam uso sem prescrição médica. As variáveis associadas ao uso sem prescrição foram: exercer trabalho sexual em tempo integral (OR 4,59; IC95% 1,90–11,06) ou no passado (OR 1,92; IC95% 1,10–3,34); não ter retificado o nome (OR 3,59; IC95% 2,23–5,76); não estar estudando (OR 1,83; IC95% 1,07–3,13); ser mais jovem (OR 2,16; IC95% 1,31–3,56); ter sofrido discriminação em algum momento na vida por ser mulheres trans e travestis (OR 0,40 – IC95% 0,20–0,81). Conclusão: O uso de hormônios não prescritos é alto entre mulheres trans e travestis, principalmente entre as mais jovens, as que não estudavam, as que não retificaram o nome e as com histórico de trabalho sexual. Está relacionado à urgência para a transição de gênero, com uso exagerado e danos à saúde.

RESUMEN

We aimed to understand the perspective and use of HIV prevention methods in context of the sexual practices of adolescent gay and bisexual men, travestis, and transgender women (TGW). In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with 22 adolescent gay and bisexual men, travestis, and TGW aged between 15 and 19 years in São Paulo, Brazil, as part of the formative research of the PrEP1519 study, an ongoing daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) demonstration study among adolescents. Participants' knowledge repertoire about prevention methods and their experience with them concentrated on condoms, which were regarded as the most well-known, "compulsory" practice, whose use was an individual responsibility. Prior HIV/STI testing was reported by a few participants as a measure to decide to discontinue condom use in stable relationships, whereas seeking testing after condomless sex was an attempt to repair a "failure" in prevention. The importance of commercial sex was striking among TGW and travestis, in which condom use often depended on clients' decision, and drug use and risk of violence hindered decision-making and self-care. Adolescents showed little knowledge, frequent confusion, and no experience with post-exposure prophylaxis and PrEP. An incipient appropriation of the diversity of prevention methods and a rigid normativity about the use of condoms are key drivers in adolescents' perception and use of HIV prevention methods. Adolescents' risk management seems to be restricted in terms of their autonomy and ability to assess exposure across contexts, failing to include antiretroviral-based (ARV) methods, thus requiring tailored and context-sensitive strategies for an effective combination prevention approach.

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RESUMEN

We aimed to understand the perspective and use of HIV prevention methods in context of the sexual practices of adolescent gay and bisexual men, travestis, and transgender women (TGW). In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with 22 adolescent gay and bisexual men, travestis, and TGW aged between 15 and 19 years in São Paulo, Brazil, as part of the formative research of the PrEP1519 study, an ongoing daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) demonstration study among adolescents. Participants' knowledge repertoire about prevention methods and their experience with them concentrated on condoms, which were regarded as the most well-known, "compulsory" practice, whose use was an individual responsibility. Prior HIV/STI testing was reported by a few participants as a measure to decide to discontinue condom use in stable relationships, whereas seeking testing after condomless sex was an attempt to repair a "failure" in prevention. The importance of commercial sex was striking among TGW and travestis, in which condom use often depended on clients' decision, and drug use and risk of violence hindered decision-making and self-care. Adolescents showed little knowledge, frequent confusion, and no experience with post-exposure prophylaxis and PrEP. An incipient appropriation of the diversity of prevention methods and a rigid normativity about the use of condoms are key drivers in adolescents' perception and use of HIV prevention methods. Adolescents' risk management seems to be restricted in terms of their autonomy and ability to assess exposure across contexts, failing to include antiretroviral-based (ARV) methods, thus requiring tailored and context-sensitive strategies for an effective combination prevention approach.

O estudo teve como objetivo compreender a perspectiva e o uso de métodos de prevenção do HIV no contexto das práticas sexuais de homens gays e bissexuais, travestis e mulheres transgênero adolescentes. Foram realizados grupos focais e entrevistas em profundidade com 22 adolescentes gays e bissexuais, travestis e mulheres transgênero entre 15 e 19 anos de idade na cidade de São Paulo, Brasil, como parte da pesquisa formativa do estudo PrEP1519, um estudo de demonstração, em andamento, sobre profilaxia pré-exposição (PrEP) diária em adolescentes. O repertório de conhecimentos e a experiência dos participantes com métodos de prevenção estiveram concentrados no preservativo, visto como a prática mais conhecida, "compulsória", e cujo uso era da responsabilidade do indivíduo. Testagem prévia para ISTs/HIV era relatada por alguns participantes enquanto medida para decidir sobre a descontinuação do uso de preservativos em relações estáveis, enquanto a busca de testagem depois de sexo sem preservativo aparecia como uma tentativa de reparar uma "falha" na prevenção. O sexo comercial figurava de maneira importante entre as mulheres transgênero e travestis, em que o uso de preservativo muitas vezes dependia da decisão do cliente, e o uso de drogas e o risco de violência dificultavam o processo de decisão e o autocuidado. Os adolescentes demonstravam pouco conhecimento, confusão frequente e nenhuma experiência com a profilaxia pós-exposição sexual (PEP) e a PrEP. Fatores chave na percepção e no uso dos métodos de prevenção do HIV por adolescentes incluem uma apropriação incipiente da gama de métodos de prevenção e uma normatividade rígida quanto ao uso de preservativos. O manejo do risco pelos adolescentes parece estar limitada em termos da autonomia e capacidade de avaliar a exposição em diferentes contextos, e deixa de incluir métodos baseados em antirretrovirais; assim, exige estratégias customizadas e sensíveis ao contexto para uma abordagem efetiva de prevenção combinada.

El objetivo del trabajo fue comprender la perspectiva y el uso de los métodos de prevención del VIH en el contexto de prácticas sexuales de adolescentes gays y bisexuales, travestis y mujeres transgénero (TGW). Se organizaron debates y grupos de discusión en profundidad con 22 adolescentes gais y hombres bisexuales, travestis y TGW con edades entre 15 y 19 años en São Paulo, Brasil, como parte de la investigación formativa del estudio PrEP1519, un estudio experimental diario en curso sobre profilaxis preexposición (PrEP) entre adolescentes. El repertorio de conocimiento de los participantes sobre lo anterior y su experiencia con métodos de prevención se concentró en los condones, siendo considerada como la mejor práctica conocida, "obligatoria", y cuyo uso era de responsabilidad individual. Algunos mencionaron pruebas previas de VIH/ETS, como medida para decidir suspender el uso del condón en relaciones estables, mientras que la búsqueda de pruebas tras el sexo sin condón fue un intento de arreglar un "fallo" en la prevención. El sexo comercial fue importante entre TGW y travestis, en donde el uso del condón a menudo dependía de la decisión del cliente, así como el consumo de drogas y riesgo de violencia convertían en algo más complicado la toma de decisiones y el autocuidado. Los adolescentes mostraron poco conocimiento, una frecuente confusión y no tener experiencia con la profilaxis posexposición (PEP) y PrEP para el VIH. Una incipiente apropiación de la diversidad de los métodos de prevención y una rígida normatividad sobre el uso de condones son factores clave en la percepción y uso de métodos de prevención VIH por parte de los adolescentes. La gestión del riesgo por los adolescentes parece estar restringida en términos de su autonomía y habilidad para evaluar la exposición a través de contextos y limitaciones para incluir métodos basados en ARV, por lo tanto se requieren estrategias a medida y sensibles con el contexto para un enfoque combinado de prevención.

RESUMEN

We aimed to understand the perspective and use of HIV prevention methods in context of the sexual practices of adolescent gay and bisexual men, travestis, and transgender women (TGW). In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with 22 adolescent gay and bisexual men, travestis, and TGW aged between 15 and 19 years in São Paulo, Brazil, as part of the formative research of the PrEP1519 study, an ongoing daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) demonstration study among adolescents. Participants' knowledge repertoire about prevention methods and their experience with them concentrated on condoms, which were regarded as the most well-known, "compulsory" practice, whose use was an individual responsibility. Prior HIV/STI testing was reported by a few participants as a measure to decide to discontinue condom use in stable relationships, whereas seeking testing after condomless sex was an attempt to repair a "failure" in prevention. The importance of commercial sex was striking among TGW and travestis, in which condom use often depended on clients' decision, and drug use and risk of violence hindered decision-making and self-care. Adolescents showed little knowledge, frequent confusion, and no experience with post-exposure prophylaxis and PrEP. An incipient appropriation of the diversity of prevention methods and a rigid normativity about the use of condoms are key drivers in adolescents' perception and use of HIV prevention methods. Adolescents' risk management seems to be restricted in terms of their autonomy and ability to assess exposure across contexts, failing to include antiretroviral-based (ARV) methods, thus requiring tailored and context-sensitive strategies for an effective combination prevention approach.

O estudo teve como objetivo compreender a perspectiva e o uso de métodos de prevenção do HIV no contexto das práticas sexuais de homens gays e bissexuais, travestis e mulheres transgênero adolescentes. Foram realizados grupos focais e entrevistas em profundidade com 22 adolescentes gays e bissexuais, travestis e mulheres transgênero entre 15 e 19 anos de idade na cidade de São Paulo, Brasil, como parte da pesquisa formativa do estudo PrEP1519, um estudo de demonstração, em andamento, sobre profilaxia pré-exposição (PrEP) diária em adolescentes. O repertório de conhecimentos e a experiência dos participantes com métodos de prevenção estiveram concentrados no preservativo, visto como a prática mais conhecida, "compulsória", e cujo uso era da responsabilidade do indivíduo. Testagem prévia para ISTs/HIV era relatada por alguns participantes enquanto medida para decidir sobre a descontinuação do uso de preservativos em relações estáveis, enquanto a busca de testagem depois de sexo sem preservativo aparecia como uma tentativa de reparar uma "falha" na prevenção. O sexo comercial figurava de maneira importante entre as mulheres transgênero e travestis, em que o uso de preservativo muitas vezes dependia da decisão do cliente, e o uso de drogas e o risco de violência dificultavam o processo de decisão e o autocuidado. Os adolescentes demonstravam pouco conhecimento, confusão frequente e nenhuma experiência com a profilaxia pós-exposição sexual (PEP) e a PrEP. Fatores chave na percepção e no uso dos métodos de prevenção do HIV por adolescentes incluem uma apropriação incipiente da gama de métodos de prevenção e uma normatividade rígida quanto ao uso de preservativos. O manejo do risco pelos adolescentes parece estar limitada em termos da autonomia e capacidade de avaliar a exposição em diferentes contextos, e deixa de incluir métodos baseados em antirretrovirais; assim, exige estratégias customizadas e sensíveis ao contexto para uma abordagem efetiva de prevenção combinada.

El objetivo del trabajo fue comprender la perspectiva y el uso de los métodos de prevención del VIH en el contexto de prácticas sexuales de adolescentes gays y bisexuales, travestis y mujeres transgénero (TGW). Se organizaron debates y grupos de discusión en profundidad con 22 adolescentes gais y hombres bisexuales, travestis y TGW con edades entre 15 y 19 años en São Paulo, Brasil, como parte de la investigación formativa del estudio PrEP1519, un estudio experimental diario en curso sobre profilaxis preexposición (PrEP) entre adolescentes. El repertorio de conocimiento de los participantes sobre lo anterior y su experiencia con métodos de prevención se concentró en los condones, siendo considerada como la mejor práctica conocida, "obligatoria", y cuyo uso era de responsabilidad individual. Algunos mencionaron pruebas previas de VIH/ETS, como medida para decidir suspender el uso del condón en relaciones estables, mientras que la búsqueda de pruebas tras el sexo sin condón fue un intento de arreglar un "fallo" en la prevención. El sexo comercial fue importante entre TGW y travestis, en donde el uso del condón a menudo dependía de la decisión del cliente, así como el consumo de drogas y riesgo de violencia convertían en algo más complicado la toma de decisiones y el autocuidado. Los adolescentes mostraron poco conocimiento, una frecuente confusión y no tener experiencia con la profilaxis posexposición (PEP) y PrEP para el VIH. Una incipiente apropiación de la diversidad de los métodos de prevención y una rígida normatividad sobre el uso de condones son factores clave en la percepción y uso de métodos de prevención VIH por parte de los adolescentes. La gestión del riesgo por los adolescentes parece estar restringida en términos de su autonomía y habilidad para evaluar la exposición a través de contextos y limitaciones para incluir métodos basados en ARV, por lo tanto se requieren estrategias a medida y sensibles con el contexto para un enfoque combinado de prevención.

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This study conducted among transgender women in São Paulo, Brazil assessed the acceptability and suitability of screening sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, by sampling multiple anatomical sites (i.e. urethral, anorectal, oropharyngeal, and neovaginal), and utilizing self- or provider-collection methods. First, a convenience sample of 23 cohort participants were recruited during a scheduled study visit between October and November 2018. Data collection was through a short investigator-led quantitative survey in Portuguese, and included presentation of investigator-designed, gender-neutral instructional diagrams to guide self-sampling. Three supplemental focus group discussions (FGDs) with a total of 30 participants guided by semi-structured script were conducted in Portuguese between September and October 2019. All participants reported being assigned male sex at birth and self-identified with a feminine gender identity at time of study. All survey respondents (100%; n = 23) indicated willingness to provide samples for STI screening during a future study visit. Preference was for self-collection of urine samples (83%; n = 19), urethral swabs (82%; n = 18), and anorectal swabs (77%; n = 17). A lower preference for self-collection of oropharyngeal swabs (48%; n = 11) was observed. Most respondents (78%; n = 18) indicated that they would not prefer specimens to be collected by a health professional, mainly due to 'more privacy' (72%; n = 13). All respondents indicated that they would feel comfortable to provide a self-collected sample based on instructional diagrams shown. In FGDs, although the collection by a health professional was described as a technically safer option for some participants, there was a preference for self-collection to avoid discomfort and embarrassment in exposing the body. Overall, this sub-study suggested acceptability among transgender women of introducing self-sampling for etiological diagnosis of STIs from potential infection sites. Uptake and usability will be explored further in a cross-sectional STI prevalence study of transgender women in Brazil.

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This article revisits the history of HIV prevention for gay and other men who have sex with men in relation to public health policy and the role of LGBT and AIDS-related social movements in Brazil. An interpretive study was undertaken informed by philosophical and phenomenological hermeneutics. It included interviews with policymakers, researchers and activists involved in HIV and AIDS, especially HIV prevention among gay and other men who have sex with men. Prevention initiatives were analysed with a focus on the social and programmatic aspects of vulnerability to HIV, and advances and setbacks in the Brazilian response to the epidemic. The recent crisis in HIV prevention triggered by a growing conservatism in Brazilian politics and the current government's LGBT-phobia pose barriers that compromise issues of profound importance with regards to policy on HIV and AIDS: namely, engagement with human rights and social participation.

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ABSTRACT This study conducted among transgender women in São Paulo, Brazil assessed the acceptability and suitability of screening sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, by sampling multiple anatomical sites (i.e. urethral, anorectal, oropharyngeal, and neovaginal), and utilizing self- or provider-collection methods. First, a convenience sample of 23 cohort participants were recruited during a scheduled study visit between October and November 2018. Data collection was through a short investigator-led quantitative survey in Portuguese, and included presentation of investigator-designed, gender-neutral instructional diagrams to guide self-sampling. Three supplemental focus group discussions (FGDs) with a total of 30 participants guided by semi-structured script were conducted in Portuguese between September and October 2019. All participants reported being assigned male sex at birth and self-identified with a feminine gender identity at time of study. All survey respondents (100%; n = 23) indicated willingness to provide samples for STI screening during a future study visit. Preference was for self-collection of urine samples (83%; n = 19), urethral swabs (82%; n = 18), and anorectal swabs (77%; n = 17). A lower preference for self-collection of oropharyngeal swabs (48%; n = 11) was observed. Most respondents (78%; n = 18) indicated that they would not prefer specimens to be collected by a health professional, mainly due to 'more privacy' (72%; n = 13). All respondents indicated that they would feel comfortable to provide a self-collected sample based on instructional diagrams shown. In FGDs, although the collection by a health professional was described as a technically safer option for some participants, there was a preference for self-collection to avoid discomfort and embarrassment in exposing the body. Overall, this sub-study suggested acceptability among transgender women of introducing self-sampling for etiological diagnosis of STIs from potential infection sites. Uptake and usability will be explored further in a cross-sectional STI prevalence study of transgender women in Brazil.

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Resumo O artigo objetivou analisar conhecimentos, percepções, práticas de cuidado e Itinerrários Terapêuticos (IT) para o diagnóstico e tratamento das Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (IST), com destaque para sífilis, entre Travestis e Mulheres Trans (TrMT) em Salvador, Brasil. Foram realizados 05 grupos focais e 06 entrevistas semiestruturadas com 30 TrMT. Os achados apontam amplo desconhecimento e percepções contraditórias sobre as IST, especialmente a sífilis; identificação de duas importantes trajetórias de cuidado às IST e o destaque para IT marcados por estigmas e discriminação nos serviços de saúde. Sugere-se a ampliação das ações de saúde para essa população reconhecendo suas necessidades e a construção de novas estratégias de prevenção e tratamento para IST, dialogadas com as TrMT, e garantia de autonomia, ética e sigilo na produção do cuidado.

Abstract The article aimed to analyze knowledge, perceptions, care practices and Therapeutic Itineraries (TI) for the diagnosis and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD), with emphasis on syphilis, among travesti and transgender women (TGW) in Salvador, Brazil. 05 focus groups and 06 semi-structured interviews with travesti/TGW were carried out with a total of 30 participants. The findings point to a wide lack of knowledge and contradictory perceptions about STD, especially syphilis; identification of two important trajectories of care for STD and the emphasis on TI marked by stigma and discrimination in health services. The expansion of health actions for this population is suggested, recognizing their needs and the construction of new prevention and treatment strategies for STD, in dialogue with the travesti/TGW, and guaranteeing autonomy, ethics and confidentiality in the production of care.

Resumen El artículo tuvo como objetivo analizar conocimientos, percepciones, prácticas de atención y Rutas Terapêuticas (RT) para el diagnóstico y tratamiento de las Enfermedades de Transmisión Sexual (ETS), con énfasis en la sífilis, entre las travestidas y mujeres trans (TrMT) en Salvador, Brasil. Se realizaron 05 grupos focales y 06 entrevistas semiestructuradas con 30 TrMT. Los hallazgos apuntan a una amplia falta de conocimiento y percepciones contradictorias sobre las ETS, especialmente la sífilis; identificación de dos importantes trayectorias de atención a las ETS y el énfasis en las RT marcadas por el estigma y la discriminación en los servicios de salud. Se sugiere ampliar las acciones de salud para esta población, reconociendo sus necesidades y la construcción de nuevas estrategias de prevención y tratamiento de las ETS, en diálogo con el TrMT, y garantizando la autonomía, ética y confidencialidad en la producción de cuidados.

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BACKGROUND: Trans women have been shown to experience disproportionately poor outcomes in physical and mental health. Although it is common to talk about the violence against trans people, little is still known about mental health outcomes and experiences of suicidality among trans women, particularly in developing countries. This study aims to investigate risk factors and associations with mental health, suicide ideation and suicide attempts among trans women in the largest metropolitan area in Brazil. METHODS: Trans women living in São Paulo were recruited between May 2017 and July 2019 using the long-chain peer referral method Respondent-Driven Sampling. Multivariate regression models were used to investigate the associations with K10 score classification (logistic) and suicidal ideation/suicide attempt (ordinal logistic). RESULTS: A total of 763 trans women were included in the study. Over one quarter (26.5%) of trans women had been diagnosed with anxiety in the past, and close to one in five (19.1%) trans women had received a diagnosis of depression. More than two in five (41.9%) trans women had moderate to severe psychological distress. More than half of all participating trans women reported having previously either experienced suicidal ideation or attempted to take their own lives (25.0 and 31.2% respectively). In multivariate regression, moderate to severe psychological distress was associated with homelessness, income, current sex work, use of stimulant drugs, history of physical abuse, depression diagnosis and access to mental health treatment. Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts were associated with race/skin color, living arrangements, marital status, current sex work, history of sexual violence, depression and PTSD diagnoses, access to mental health treatment and psychological distress. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that there is a significant association between mental health conditions, lack of treatment for these conditions and suicidality among trans gender women. Findings point to the need for a structural transformation in Brazil that enables a reduction in the social inequality and violence that impact the mental health of trans women. A number of recommendations to achieve this are provided.

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Resumo: O recrudescimento da epidemia de HIV entre gays e outros homens que fazem sexo com homens (HSH) é revelador de limitações ou fracasso nas políticas de prevenção direcionadas a este grupo. Com base nas abordagens teóricas da vulnerabilidade e do Cuidado, analisamos o panorama das políticas de prevenção do HIV/aids voltados a gays e outros HSH, recorrendo a documentos nacionais que fundamentam políticas de prevenção do HIV/aids e a documentos produzidos por organizações não governamentais e pelas Conferências Nacionais LGBT. Identificamos, nos documentos analisados, três leituras acerca das políticas de prevenção: a) epidemiológica; b) da responsabilidade preventiva; c) baseada nos direitos humanos e na vulnerabilidade. A disputa, a negação e a hegemonia de cada uma dessas perspectivas nos diferentes momentos permitem compreender parte dos desafios e das barreiras enfrentados na prevenção do HIV e da aids entre gays e outros HSH. A análise efetivada mostra mudanças na intensidade e na qualidade do diálogo socioestatal. A frágil formalização e a abrangência restrita dos documentos destacam-se como limitações na efetuação de uma abordagem de prevenção efetivamente fundamentada na vulnerabilidade e nos direitos humanos, bem como na incorporação da perspectiva do Cuidado público. Reiteramos a importância do diálogo qualificado com os sujeitos implicados nas políticas para audição de suas necessidades, de seus anseios e críticas.

Abstract: The resurgence of the HIV epidemic among gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM) is indicative of limitations or failures in prevention policies directed to this group. Based on the theoretical approaches of vulnerability and Care, we analyze the panorama of HIV/AIDS prevention policies for gays and other MSM in Brazil using national documents that support prevention policies of HIV/AIDS and documents produced by nongovernmental organizations and by the LGBT National Conferences. We identified, in the documents analyzed, three readings that support prevention policies: a) epidemiological; b) preventive responsibility; c) based on human rights and vulnerability. The dispute, denial and hegemony of each of these perspectives at different times allows us to understand some of the challenges and barriers faced in preventing HIV and AIDS among gays and other MSM. Our analysis shows changes in the intensity and quality of the dialogue between state and society. The fragile formalization and restricted scope of the documents stand out as limitations in the effectuation of a prevention approach based on vulnerability and human rights, as well as the incorporation of the Public Care perspective. We reiterate the importance of a qualified dialogue with the individuals involved in the policies to hear their needs, aspirations and critics.

Resumen: El recrudecimiento de la epidemia de VIH entre gays y otros hombres que tienen sexo con hombres (HSH) revela limitaciones o fracasos de las políticas de prevención dirigidas a ese grupo. Con base en los enfoques teóricos de la vulnerabilidad y del Cuidado, analizamos el panorama de las políticas de prevención del VIH / Sida dirigidas a gays y otros HSH, recurriendo a documentos nacionales que fundamentan políticas de prevención del VIH / Sida y documentos producidos por organizaciones no- gubernamentales y las Conferencias Nacionales LGBT. Identificamos, en los documentos analizados, tres lecturas acerca de las políticas de prevención: a) epidemiológica; b) de la responsabilidad preventiva; c) basada en los derechos humanos y la vulnerabilidad. La disputa, la negación y la hegemonía de cada una de esas perspectivas en los diferentes momentos permiten comprender parte de los desafíos y barreras enfrentados en la prevención del VIH y del Sida entre gays y otros HSH. El análisis efectuado muestra cambios en la intensidad y la calidad del diálogo socio-estatal. La frágil formalización y el alcance restringido de los documentos se destacan como limitaciones en la realización de un abordaje de prevención efectivamente fundamentado en la vulnerabilidad y los derechos humanos, así como a la incorporación de la perspectiva del Cuidado público. Reiteramos la importancia del diálogo calificado con los sujetos implicados en las políticas para la audición de sus necesidades, anhelos y críticas.

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Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been considered a promising strategy for controlling the global HIV epidemic. However, it is necessary to translate the knowledge accumulated from clinical trials and demosntration studies to the reality of health services and the groups most vulnerable to infection in order to achieve broad coverage with PrEP. The article proposes a reflection on this challenge, focusing on three dimensions: users of prophylaxis, with an emphasis on the contexts of sexual practices and the potential exposures to HIV; the advantages of prophylaxis as compared to other methods and the challenges for protective and safe use; and health services, considering the organizational principles to ensure greater success in the supply and incorporation of PrEP as part of combination prevention strategies. The following principles were analyzed: uniqueness of care, freedom of choice and non-hierarchization of prevention methods, sexual risk management, scheduling flexibility, and complementary and multidisciplinary care. These principles can foster organization of the health service and care, facilitating linkage and retention in care. Some comments were offered on the relative incompatibility between the existing structure of services and the Brazilian Ministry of Health guidelines for offering PrEP. The conclusion was that the success of PrEP as a public health policy depends on two essential factors: ensuring that health services are culturally diverse settings, free of discrimination, and the intensification of community-based interventions, including social networks, in order to reduce inequalities in access to PrEP and health services as a whole.

A profilaxia pré-exposição sexual (PrEP) tem sido considerada estratégica e promissora no controle da epidemia de HIV globalmente. Contudo, faz-se necessário transpor o conhecimento acumulado pelos estudos de eficácia e demonstrativos à realidade dos serviços e das populações mais vulneráveis à infecção, de forma a alcançar uma ampla cobertura da PrEP. Propõe-se uma reflexão sobre tal desafio enfocando duas dimensões: os usuários da profilaxia, com ênfase nos contextos de práticas e de potencial exposição ao HIV; as vantagens comparativas da profilaxia em relação aos demais métodos e os desafios para um uso protetivo e seguro; e os serviços, considerando os princípios organizativos que poderão conferir maior êxito na oferta e na incorporação da PrEP, no bojo das estratégias de prevenção combinada. Foram analisados como alguns princípios - singularidade no cuidado, autonomia para escolha e não hierarquização dos métodos, gestão de risco sexual e flexibilidade de agendamento e complementaridade de uma equipe multiprofissional - podem favorecer a organização do serviço e do cuidado, facilitando a vinculação e retenção dos usuários. Teceram-se algumas considerações acerca de uma relativa incompatibilidade entre a estrutura existente nos serviços e as diretrizes do Ministério da Saúde para oferta de PrEP. Concluiu-se que o maior êxito da PrEP como política pública de saúde depende de dois aspectos centrais: assegurar que os serviços sejam ambientes culturalmente diversos e livres de discriminação e a intensificação das intervenções comunitárias, incluindo as redes sociais, de forma a reduzir iniquidades no acesso aos serviços e à PrEP.

La profilaxis pre-exposición sexual (PrEP) ha sido considerada una estratégica y prometedora acción en el control de la epidemia de VIH globalmente. No obstante, se hace necesario trasladar el conocimiento acumulado por los estudios de eficacia, que muestren la realidad de los servicios y la población más vulnerable a la infección, de manera que se alcance una amplia cobertura de la PrEP. Se propone una reflexión sobre este desafío centrándose en dos dimensiones: usuarios de profilaxis, con énfasis en contextos de prácticas y potencial exposición al VIH; ventajas comparativas de la profilaxis, respecto a los demás métodos, y los desafíos para un uso con protección y seguro; y los servicios, considerando principios organizativos que podrían otorgar un mayor éxito a la oferta e incorporación de la PrEP, en el seno de estrategias de prevención combinada. Se analizaron como algunos principios: singularidad en el cuidado, autonomía para la elección y no jerarquización de los métodos, gestión del riesgo sexual y flexibilidad de citas y complementariedad de un equipo multiprofesional. Todos ellos pueden favorecer la organización del servicio y del cuidado, facilitando la vinculación y preservación de los usuarios. Se elaboraron algunas consideraciones, acerca de una relativa incompatibilidad entre la estructura existente en los servicios y las directrices del Ministerio de Salud de Brasil para la oferta de PrEP. Se concluyó que el mayor éxito de la PrEP, como política pública de salud, depende de dos aspectos centrales: asegurar que los servicios sean ambientes culturalmente diversos y libres de discriminación y la intensificación de las intervenciones comunitarias, incluyendo redes sociales, de forma que se reduzcan las inequidades en el acceso a los servicios y al PrEP.

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