The article titled «From Hope to Risk: Representation of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV in the Spanish Press (2018-2023)», by Laura Cabrera and Sergio Villanueva Baselga, analyzes the representation of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV in the Spanish press during the period from 2018 to 2023. PrEP is a very effective tool for HIV prevention, able to reduce the risk of infection by up to 92% with constant use. However, its adoption remains low due to various structural, social, and personal barriers, including stigmatization.
The study is based on a quantitative analysis of content of articles from four Spanish newspapers: El Pais, La Vanguardia, El Mundo and Ara. The results reveal a significant change in the portrayal of PrEP in media, moving from hopeful narratives to risk-focused approaches after implementation. Initially, PrEP was presented as a promising biomedical advance, but over time, media coverage began to associate it with risks such as increased other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and reduced condom use.
This analysis shows that media coverage of PrEP has predominantly focused on cisgender men, with mentions limited to cisgender women and transgender men. This biased representation can contribute to the perpetuation of stereotypes and the exclusion of certain groups from public discussion of PrEP. In addition, a change was observed in the sources of information cited in the articles: while in the pre-implementation period civil society organizations were highlighted, in the post-implementation period individual testimonies and the voice of the pharmaceutical industry increased.
The study concludes that media coverage of PrEP in the Spanish press has evolved toward a more risk-centered narrative, which could contribute to stigma and hinder its adoption. The need to improve communication strategies is emphasized to support PrEP uptake and reduce associated stigma.
This article is the result of Laura Cabrera’s final Degree Work (TFG) in Audiovisual Communication (who signs as first author) led by the researcher and secretary of the CRICC Sergio Villanueva Baselga (who signs as second author).
Cabrera, Laura; Villanueva Baselga, Sergio (2025). «From hope to risk: representations of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV in the Spanish press (2018-2023)». Culture, Health & Sexuality, 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1080/13691058.2025.2481924
