Trans Equity Project: a multicomponent intervention to improve HIV prevention and care continua outcomes among men and women of transgender experience.

Purpose: Men and women of transgender experience encounter HIV-related health inequities based on race across the HIV care continua. We explored HIV prevention and care needs via focus groups, surveys, and Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) testing experiences (N = 40); we supplemented this data via in-depth interviews with peer navigators.

Methods: This study was conducted from 2020 to 2022. Analyses included coding and descriptive statistics. Nearly 63% identified as Black, and 20% identified as Latinx. Nearly 90% of participants reported ever having HIV tests; 10% of participants tested positive for other STIs.

Results: Qualitative analyses yielded three core intervention components for men and women of transgender experience: (1) Comprehensive Trans Care; (2) Community, Mentorship, and Support; and (3) Life Skills and Professional Development. Study participants, community and scientific advisory board members agreed on the need for a peer-led, group-level intervention in English and Spanish.

Conclusion: These needs and priorities are conducive to future interventions which build community agency, structural approaches, and health equity centered on men and women of transgender experience of color.