Abstract
To examine the sexual networks of PrEP-eligible Latino men to assess how homophily and dyadic characteristics and behaviors relate to PrEP communication among sexual partners. From February 2022 to August 2023, we used tailored methodologies to engage and recruit PrEP-eligible Latino men in South Florida. A three-wave Respondent Driven Sampling strategy (RDS) was used to recruit first and second order friends, completing networks of up to 13 individuals. A two-level logistic regression model was used to assess individual and dyadic level variables in relation to PrEP outcomes of interest. Four hundred eighty-eight participants (egos) reported 1065 sexual partners (alters), primarily perceived as Latino and casual partners. Emotional closeness was associated with increased odds of PrEP-related conversations and PrEP status disclosure, at the ego and alter level. Consistent condom use was associated with decreased odds of PrEP conversations. At the alter level, odds of PrEP status disclosure were lower when consistent condom use and main partner status were reported by the ego. Among PrEP-eligible Latino men, PrEP communication and disclosure of PrEP use are related to the dyadic characteristics and behaviors between sexual partners. Discussing PrEP with sexual partners may influence individual awareness and willingness to use PrEP. In the development of future HIV prevention programs for Latino men, prevention strategies must integrate the unique differences in sexual partnership characteristics and behaviors.