PrEP surfing common among MSM - Scorecard - MDSpire
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PrEP surfing common among MSM

Reliance on partners’ PrEP use was more common among younger men and those who had used PrEP in the previous 6 months.

  • By

  • Julie Greenbaum

  • August 31, 2026

  • 6 min

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Clinical Scorecard: PrEP surfing common among MSM

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionPrEP surfing among men who have sex with men (MSM)
Key MechanismsUsing a partner’s PrEP use as a perceived HIV prevention strategy during condomless anal sex.
Target PopulationMen without HIV who have sex with men, particularly those using event-driven PrEP or no PrEP.
Care SettingCommunity-based HIV prevention strategies.

Key Highlights

  • PrEP surfing reported at one-quarter of study visits.
  • 42% of participants reported PrEP surfing at least once.
  • Higher odds of PrEP surfing associated with more sex partners and recent PrEP use.
  • Intention to practice PrEP surfing was reported by 27% of visits.
  • Effectiveness of PrEP surfing for HIV prevention remains unknown.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Assess recent PrEP use and sexual behavior in MSM.

Management

  • PrEP surfing should not be recommended as an HIV prevention strategy.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor sexual health and PrEP use disclosure among partners.

Risks

  • Potential reliance on partner's PrEP use without confirmation.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Men who have sex with men, particularly those at risk for HIV.

Event-driven PrEP use is common, but reliance on partner's PrEP use is risky.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Encourage open dialogue about PrEP use between sexual partners.
  • Educate patients on the limitations and risks of relying on PrEP surfing.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

PrEP surfing common among MSM

  • by Julie Greenbaum

  • August 31, 2026

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