Transition from post-exposure prophylaxis to pre-exposure prophylaxis in sexual and gender minorities: protocol scoping review

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To map the available scientific evidence on linkage strategies and transition models from post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among sexual and gender minorities (SGM), and to identify knowledge gaps through an Evidence Gap Map (EGM).

Eligibility criteria: Following the PCC framework, studies involving adults ≥18 years belonging to SGM—men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender women, transgender men, and non-binary individuals—who have sought or used non-occupational PEP; addressing strategies or models aimed at facilitating PEP-to-PrEP transition; in any geographic setting or care modality. Studies on occupational PEP, exclusively cisgender heterosexual populations, and those under 18 years will be excluded.

Information sources: Systematic searches in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, LILACS, and Web of Science, supplemented by artificial intelligence semantic search (Consensus) and institutional grey literature sources.

Analysis method: Multidimensional narrative synthesis organized across four thematic dimensions, complemented by an EGM cross-tabulating intervention types with reported health outcomes.

Expected results: Identification and characterization of PEP-to-PrEP transition models, linkage rates by care model, barriers and facilitators, and visualization of priority research gaps in SGM.

Keywords: HIV; Post-Exposure Prophylaxis; Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis; Sexual and Gender Minorities; continuity of patient care; Prevention Cascade (MeSH).