Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Sexual Minority Populations in Brazil: An Analysis of Social/Racial Disparities in Maintaining Social Distancing and a Description of Sexual Behavior

• DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02984-1
• Publication Date: 2020-07-31T15:04:02Z
• Authors: Thiago S. Torres; Brenda Hoagland; Daniel R. B. Bezerra; Alex Garner; Emilia M. Jalil; Lara E. Coelho; Marcos Benedetti; Cristina Pimenta; Beatriz Grinsztejn; Valdilea G. Veloso
• Keywords: Social distance; Health psychology; Pandemic; Syndemic

We conducted a web-based survey to understand the impact of social distancing measures on Brazilian MSM and transgender/non-binary lives. A total 3486 respondents were included in this analysis great majority cismen (98%). The median age was 32 years (IQR: 27-40), 44% non-white, 36% low schooling 38% income. Most participants reported HIV negative/unknown status (77%). Participants on-PrEP more condomless anal sex than those off-PrEP. Conversely, 24% off-PrEP at substantial HIV-risk. PrEP/ART continuation by majority, despite reports impediments medication refill. Transgender/non-binary mental health problems challenges access care. Social racial disparities associated with unattainability maintaining distancing. Tailored economic support policies during COVID-19 pandemic should be made available these populations. Challenges for will demand implementation innovative solutions avoid expansion epidemic.