Addressing Non HIV Health Challenges in Young Key Populations: Barriers, Needs, and Solutions

Introduction

Adolescence is a period characterized by significant physical, emotional, social changes that have profound implications for health outcomes. Given the heightened risk of acquiring HIV among young key populations YKP, this age group faces unique challenges to their well-being compared to older members within these specific groups and broader youth demographics in the general population.

This review address the specific needs, barriers, and service gaps encountered by YKP regarding non-HIV health services. We performed a comprehensive literature search on PubMed and Google Scholar for studies that detled age-related data associated with sexual reproductive health, mental health issues, violence experience, and substance abuse patterns in adolescents and young individuals involved as sex workers, men engaging in male same-sex activities, transger populations, or individuals who inject drugs.

Results

YKP exhibit elevated levels of unprotected intercourse, sexually transmitted infections STIs, including HIV, uninted pregnancies, experiences with violence, mental health disorders, and substance use. These conditions manifest more prominently among YKP than their counterparts from older key populations and general youth populations. The challenges faced by these individuals are exacerbated by significant obstacles in accessing healthcare services. Coverage of such services remns limited due to stigma and discrimination experienced at both the health system and policymaking levels.

Discussion

YKP require comprehensive, integrated service delivery that caters to their unique developmental requirements, encompassing healthcare needs alongside educational and social support within a rights framework. The latest World Health Organization WHO Consolidated Guidelines on HIV Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Care for Key Populations represent an initial step towards addressing the broader health needs of this cohort; however, there is insufficient evidence demonstrating the efficacy of combined interventions specifically targeted at YKP.

It will necessitate substantial investment in research and implementation initiatives to ensure that services tlored for YKP are adequately provided and accessible. Furthermore, enhancing harm reduction strategies and strengthening rights-based approaches are imperative to mitigate structural barriers impeding access to care.

In , there is an urgent need for a multi-faceted approach that addresses the complex health needs of young key populations. The implementation of robust programs requiring collaborative efforts from health systems, policymakers, communities, and stakeholders will be essential in ensuring comprehensive healthcare services reach this vulnerable group effectively. This collaboration must embrace innovative research, policy development, and community engagement to overcome existing barriers and improve health outcomes for YKP.

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