Social Challenges in the Diagnosis and Control of HIV: A Review ^†

Introduction: Despite advancements in knowledge and access to information about HIV transmission and treatment, Brazil has experienced a growing incidence of infections among young people and women, including pregnant individuals. This trend is strongly associated with persistent social challenges, including sorophobia—fear, stigma, and discrimination toward people living with HIV—and widespread low health literacy. Many remain unaware of critical prevention tools, such as PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) and PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis). Methodology: This literature review was conducted through systematic searches in the SciELO electronic database using the keywords HIV in youth, AIDS and HIV in Brazil, and sexual prevention among young people in Brazil. Studies addressing the HIV epidemic in Brazil were analyzed, with emphasis on social determinants and factors influencing infection rates. Results: The analysis demonstrates a resurgence of HIV cases following the COVID-19 pandemic, likely linked to reduced testing during lockdowns. Delayed diagnoses, low testing rates, and limited use of prophylaxis contribute to ongoing transmission. Sorophobia, deeply intertwined with LGBTphobia and fueled by misinformation, remains a significant barrier to effective prevention and treatment. Conclusions: A 2021 UNICEF study reported that nearly half of Brazil’s 40,880 HIV cases occurred among individuals aged 15–29, with there being 6971 new cases in 2022. This increase underscores the urgent need for inclusive public policies to expand access to healthcare, education, and social support for Brazilian youth. Discrimination based on race, gender, and sexuality, alongside misinformation, stigma, and sorophobia, directly affect treatment outcomes, demonstrating that HIV prevention is both a political and social issue.