Community survey reveals overwhelming interest in Lenacapavir, preference for LGBT-affirming healthcare services, and need for greater public education
Pretoria, South Africa – A new community survey conducted by OUT LGBT Well-being has found strong enthusiasm among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) for Lenacapavir (LEN), the groundbreaking long-acting HIV prevention injection that is set to be introduced in South Africa’s public health sector.
The online survey, conducted between 22 May and 2 June 2026, gathered 277 responses from MSM across South Africa to better understand community perceptions, concerns and preferences regarding LEN.
The results suggest that LEN has the potential to substantially increase both uptake and adherence to HIV prevention among MSM, a population that continues to experience a disproportionately high burden of HIV.
Lenacapavir is a new form of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) that protects against HIV infection. Unlike traditional oral PrEP, which requires taking a tablet every day, LEN is administered as injections only twice a year.
According to the survey, 85% of respondents said they were keen to start LEN when it becomes available, while an even larger proportion (87%) indicated that they would prefer receiving injections every six months rather than taking a daily HIV prevention pill.
“The findings show that many MSM are excited about the arrival of Lenacapavir and see it as a more convenient and manageable option than daily oral PrEP,” said OUT LGBT Well-being Executive Director Dawie Nel.
“For years, we have known that remembering to take a daily pill can be challenging for many people. The strong preference for twice-yearly injections suggests that LEN could help more people start and stay on HIV prevention, which is extremely encouraging.”
Concerns About Access and Side Effects
While interest in LEN was high, the survey also highlighted areas where more information and community education are needed.
Respondents expressed uncertainty about where LEN would be available and whether it is safe for people who use drugs or those living with mental health conditions.
Side effects emerged as the biggest concern among respondents, followed by worries about potential costs and the risk of acquiring other sexually transmitted infections.
“These findings tell us that there is still a need for clear, accessible and community-centred education about Lenacapavir,” said Nel.
“People want accurate information about how the injection works, who can use it, its safety profile and where they will be able to access it. As the rollout begins, ensuring communities have trusted information will be essential.”
LGBT-Affirming Services Remain the Preferred Choice
The survey also reinforced the importance of LGBT-affirming healthcare environments.
Nearly half of respondents (47%) said they would prefer to receive LEN at an LGBT-affirming clinic, compared to just 18% who selected Department of Health facilities as their preferred option.
Concerns centred on long waiting times at public sector clinics and perceptions that these facilities remain unwelcoming towards MSM.
“The message from the community is clear: respectful, affirming and non-judgemental healthcare matters,” Nel noted. “Many MSM continue to feel more comfortable accessing services in environments where they know they will be treated with dignity and understanding. The successful rollout of LEN will depend not only on making the medication available but also on ensuring that healthcare services are welcoming and accessible to the communities that need them most.”
OUT LGBT Well-being said the survey findings will help inform its HIV prevention programmes and advocacy efforts as South Africa prepares to introduce Lenacapavir through selected public healthcare facilities.
Survey at a Glance
- 277 completed responses
- Conducted online from 22 May to 2 June 2026
- 85% keen to start LEN when available
- 87% prefer LEN injections over daily PrEP pills
- Side effects identified as the leading concern
- 47% prefer accessing LEN at LGBT-affirming clinics
- 18% prefer Department of Health facilities
- Concerns about public clinics include waiting times and lack of MSM-friendly services