Academic Research Finds Gender Differences in HIV Treatment for Inmates Released From Jail

Research by scientists at Yale University and the University of Illinois finds significant gender differences in treatment of HIV patients who were incarcerated but have been released. The report says that one-sixth of the people in the United States with HIV have transitioned through the criminal justice system.

The study found that six months after being released from jail or prison, women were significantly less likely than men to have obtained one of the three recommended treatments for HIV: having a regular HIV treatment provider, receiving antiretroviral therapy, and achieving viral suppression which can reduce HIV transmission to others.

Jaimie Meyer, an instructor in infectious diseases at the Yale School of Medicine and lead author of the study, stated, “Women living with HIV and transitioning from jail often have severe psychiatric and substance use disorders that interfere with healthcare engagement. We have identified a gender-specific resource gap for people with HIV leaving jail and returning to communities.” Dr. Meyer earned her medical degree at the University of Connecticut.

The study, “Gender Disparities in HIV Treatment Outcomes Following Release From Jail: Results From a Multicenter Study,” was published on the website of the American Journal of Public Health.