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U.S. HIV Prevention Update: Testing Front and Center
PLACEHOLDER
min read
May 12, 2025
With PrEP access increasing, HIV prevention in the U.S. is shifting to include frequent testing as a core strategy. Rapid testing options like INSTI® are helping reduce the time between exposure and diagnosis.
As the U.S. continues its push to end the HIV epidemic, the spotlight is turning toward testing, not just as a diagnostic tool but as a key prevention strategy. With medical advances like expanding access to PrEP and increasing awareness, knowing your status early and often has never been more critical.
Testing as Prevention: A New Focus
For years, HIV prevention efforts have centred on behaviour change and treatment. Now, routine, accessible testing is increasingly recognized as a vital frontline strategy. The faster someone knows their status, the sooner they can either start antiretroviraltreatment (ART) or take steps to prevent transmission.
The CDC recommends at least one HIV test for everyone aged 13–64,and annual or more frequent testing for people at higher risk (CDC, 2025). However, implementation gaps remain, especially in underserved communities.
This is where rapid testing technologies like the INSTI® HIV-1/2 Antibody Test come in. Offering results in just one minute, INSTI® and other point-of-care tests reduce wait times, eliminate barriers, and increase the likelihood of people learning their status and taking action.
PrEP and Testing: Partners in Prevention
The increasing availability of PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)—including long-acting injectables—is a major step forward. But effective PrEP use requires regular HIV testing to monitor for breakthrough infections and ensure timely treatment initiation if needed (CDC, PrEP).
Alongside exploring a national PrEP program, expanding access must go hand-in-hand with accessible, stigma-free testing, especially for communities that HIV disproportionately impacts.
Self-Testing: Privacy and Empowerment
HIV self-testing kits are another way testing is reaching people where they are. These options are particularly effective for individuals who may face stigma, discrimination, or logistical barriers to accessing care (CDC, Self-Testing).
Initiatives like National HIV Testing Day and local outreach campaigns are helping normalize testing while promoting tools that meet people’s real-life needs.
The Road Ahead
As the U.S. works toward the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE)goal of reducing new infections by 90% by 2030 (HIV.gov), the role of testing is growing. It's not just about diagnosis—it's about empowerment, early intervention, and equity.
By increasing awareness, partnered with fast, reliable self and POC (point-of-care) tests like INSTI®, we can help normalize frequent HIV testing as routine and part of overall healthcare.
It’s clear: the future of HIV prevention includes testing at its core.
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