A Systematic Review on the Effectiveness of Digital Health Interventions for HIV Prevention

Research Article

Abstract

HIV incidence is a global health challenge despite substantial advancements in biomedical preventive measures. Persistent barriers, including social stigma, geographic disparities, clinic-based accessibility constraints, and suboptimal adherence to prophylaxis, continue to impede the elimination of the epidemic. Technology-based interventions, including mobile health applications, telehealth platforms, and artificial intelligence, offer scalable and private alternatives to traditional care. Evidence derived from recent clinical trials and implementation studies indicates that digital tools significantly enhance pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake and adherence, increase HIV testing frequency, and facilitate linkage to care among high-risk populations, including men who have sex with men and adolescent girls. Smartphone-integrated platforms and interactive SMS services effectively reduce the impact of pill fatigue and social isolation. Telehealth models bridge the gap for rural and marginalized communities by eliminating the need for physical travel and reducing fear of judgment. While technical challenges such as the digital divide and data privacy concerns persist, the integration of technology into national prevention frameworks provides a robust pathway toward achieving global health targets. The careful deployment of these tools is essential for reaching individuals who remain outside the reach of conventional clinical settings.