Associations of Social Network- and Individual-Level Factors with HIV Testing, Condom Use, and Interest in PrEP Among Young Black Women

To achieve the 2030 goal of ending the HIV epidemic, we must consider social network- along with individual-level factors related to HIV prevention among young Black women (YBW). This cross-sectional study examined egocentric social network- and individual-level data of 180 YBW aged 18–24. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to study social network characteristics and individual sexual behaviors related to HIV prevention behaviors (e.g., HIV testing, condom use, and interest in preexposure prophylaxis, or PrEP). On average, YBW nominated 11 social network members (SNMs; seven friends, two family members, and one sex partner). About 92% of YBW spoke to at least one SNM about condom use and 58% spoke to at least one SNM about HIV testing. Respondents who spoke to a sex partner about condom use had 70% lower odds of being interested in PrEP, but 2.99 times the odds of reporting condom use during last sex. Odds of being tested for HIV in the prior 3 months were significantly increased by 3.97 times for those who spoke to at least one sex partner about HIV testing. However, odds of being interested in PrEP were significantly decreased by 63% for YBW who were tested for HIV in the prior 3 months. Findings underscore that understanding network- and individual-level factors is crucial in increasing HIV testing, condom use, and interest in PrEP among YBW.