High Retention and Acceptability of Long-Acting Injectable PrEP among Underserved Urban Populations: Findings from a Community-Based Health Center in Newark, NJ.
The North Jersey Community Research Initiative (NJCRI) conducted a retrospective chart review to evaluate real-world utilization of oral and long-acting injectable PrEP (LA-Cabotegravir) among individuals accessing services between 2024 and 2025. NJCRI serves a predominantly Black and Brown, urban population in Newark, NJ, many of whom face housing instability, food insecurity, and limited access to affirming healthcare. Of the 373 clients included, 69.2% received oral PrEP and 30.8% received injectable PrEP; 9% identified as transgender or gender diverse. There were no significant demographic differences between groups. Retention in care at 12 months exceeded 90% across modalities. Findings suggest long-acting injectable PrEP is highly acceptable and effective in underserved, high-vulnerability populations, particularly when integrated within syndemic, community-based models of care.


