Brooklyn Bold, Brooklyn Safe: How PrEP Empowers Black & Caribbean LGBTQAI+ Communities

In Brooklyn, Black and Caribbean LGBTQ+ individuals face some of the highest rates of new HIV infections. But today, protection and empowerment go hand in hand thanks to PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis). Backed by the CDC, New York State Department of Health, Gilead, and STARprogram.nyc, PrEP offers a powerful layer of protection that lets you stay in control of your health, your relationships, and your future.

The Disparity is Real:

HIV continues to disproportionately affect Black and Caribbean LGBTQAI+ individuals, especially gay, bisexual, and trans people. Factors like systemic racism, stigma, medical mistrust, and limited access to affirming healthcare make prevention even more critical.

What Is PrEP?

PrEP is a safe, FDA-approved medication that prevents HIV. When taken as

prescribed, it reduces your risk of acquiring HIV from sex by about 99% (CDC, Gilead).

It’s available in two main forms:

Daily Pills: Truvada (brand or generic) or Descovy

Injectable PrEP: Apretude, given every two months or Yeztugo, given twice a year

Why It Matters for Our Community:

• You don’t need insurance to start PrEP

• At STAR, we provide culturally competent, LGBTQ+ affirming care

• Injectable PrEP is discreet, private, and perfect if pills aren’t your thing

  
  

No More Shame. No More Stigma.

This is about empowerment. Taking PrEP doesn’t mean you’re promiscuous — it

means you care about your body and your future.

Your Next Step:

Visit GetMeOnPrEP.com and click on “Let’s Get Started.” Fill out the form to request

more information, and our team will reach out to you or call/text 347-909-1680 to get started at STAR Health Center.