Climate Extremes Amplify HIV Risks Among Sex Workers and LGBTQ+ Men in Kenya

Recent research underscores the profound impact of extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, on increasing HIV vulnerabilities among sex workers and sexually diverse men in Nairobi, Kenya. Published in the journal AIDS and Behavior, the study highlights how climate-related disruptions exacerbate poverty and resource scarcity, leading to behaviors that heighten HIV risk.

The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Toronto alongside Kenyan community-based collaborators, involving in-depth interviews with 21 sex workers and 15 gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM). Participants shared that drought and flooding significantly impair access to essentials like food and water. To cope, many engaged in transactional sex or traveled longer distances to access water, both of which increased their exposure to HIV and sexual violence.

Stigma linked to LGBTQ+ identities and sex work further compounds these vulnerabilities. Participants faced heightened risks of criminalization and reduced healthcare access, especially during weather crises. The intersection of climate change, social marginalization, and economic precarity creates a complex web of danger, making these populations especially susceptible to HIV.

The researchers emphasize that addressing resource scarcity is crucial for HIV prevention. They advocate for climate-informed interventions such as mobile health services, longer-acting PrEP, and stigma reduction programs specifically tailored to these vulnerable groups. As climate change continues to cause unpredictable weather patterns, understanding and mitigating its impact on marginalized populations remains vital.

This study aims to inform policies and programs to reduce HIV risk amidst climate crises, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches that consider environmental, social, and health factors.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-extreme-weather-events-linked-hiv.html