Historically, trans men and assigned female at birth (AFAB) non-binary people have been excluded from the global HIV response. Up until today, HIV research has broadly included trans women only. Trans men and AFAB non-binary people are expected to be exposed to higher risks, but little is known about the sexual health needs and vulnerabilities of this population. Trans people face barriers in accessing health care services. The experiences of discrimination and lack of knowledge of medical professionals about trans bodies and stereotypical assumptions lead to a neglect of appropriate care, prevention and treatment of HIV & STIs. Due to a dearth of research, a deficit of funding etc., little is known about HIV prevalence in this population.
This session targets these structural barriers and provides insight into actions that need to be taken in order to facilitate research, health care services and prevention inclusive of trans men and AFAB non-binary people.