Meet Paolo

A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Paolo Preston
Tuscon, USA

Having followed the work of IRMA co-founder Jim Pickett for quite some time, Paolo was naturally drawn to IRMA. As a prevention specialist himself, he feels strongly that rectal microbicides should be given preference as a new HIV prevention technology.

“We must have solid science-based tools to do prevention work without judgment, that treats people with the respect they deserve,” he says. Paolo educates the communities he works with about the importance of being honest and upfront about sexual practices in the hopes of reducing the stigma that surrounds anal sex and the community attitudes. He believes that it is these stigmas that prevent an understanding of why rectal microbicides would be important in preventing HIV. “You would not believe the discomfort some have with discussing anal sex,” he observes. As a result, he also has discussions with other prevention workers about the need to advocate easy to use and inexpensive rectal microbicides.

But aside from all of his hard work regarding HIV prevention, Paolo also loves to volunteer, spend time with his husband, and cook. His passion for writing is evident in his new blog in which he chronicles his journey of living with HIV for the last 22 years.

Check out more Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocates here.

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