British music sensation Dua Lipa is creating a buzz around PrEP, a medication designed to prevent HIV transmission. The 30-year-old artist surprised attendees at the inaugural National PrEP Day celebration by MISTR in West Hollywood on October 9, where she shared the stage with renowned figures like Cardi B, Demi Lovato, and Kim Petras, as well as popular Drag Race personalities.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Dua Lipa emphasized the need to reduce the stigma surrounding HIV and expressed optimism for the potential eradication of the disease. She highlighted the importance of normalizing discussions about HIV healthcare and promoting safe sexual practices.
The interview has garnered significant online attention, with fans commending Dua for addressing a typically taboo subject. Many individuals believe that with more influential figures advocating for PrEP and regular testing, HIV/AIDS could someday become a minor footnote in public health history.
HIV, a condition that compromises the immune system and raises the risk of severe illnesses, is primarily transmitted through sexual activities. Although manageable, there is currently no cure for the virus.
One effective strategy to lower HIV infection rates is the use of PrEP among high-risk individuals. A study conducted between 2017 and 2020 demonstrated an 86% reduction in HIV transmission with the use of HIV PrEP in real-world settings over several years.
Increasing awareness is evident in the UK, as data from a 2025 report indicates a growing number of people accessing PrEP through sexual health services. In 2024, 111,123 individuals received the medication, marking a 7.7% rise from the previous year.
Estimates show that approximately 113,500 individuals in the UK are living with HIV. The National AIDS Trust reports a steady increase in the number of people receiving HIV care, with 107,949 individuals accessing treatment in 2023, reflecting a 27% surge over the past decade.
Despite the rise in cases, a 2022 government report revealed that stigma, alongside mental health challenges, continues to hinder individuals seeking HIV treatment.