High acceptability of rapid HIV self-testing among a diverse sample of MSM from Buenos Aires, Argentina

作者：Pando Maria A^*; Dolezal Curtis; Marone Ruben O; Barreda Victoria; Carballo Dieguez Alex; Avila Maria M; Balan Ivan C

来源：PLos One, 2017, 12(7): e0180361.

DOI：10.1371/journal.pone.0180361

Introduction The objective of this study was to explore the acceptability of rapid HIV self-testing (RHST) among men who have sex with men (MSM).
Methods During 2006-2009, a sample of 500 MSM was recruited through Respondent Driven Sampling for an HIV prevalence/incidence study. Attitude toward RHST was explored among HIV negative MSM. Data were weighted prior to analyses.
Results Participants reported they were likely to buy RHST (74%), test themselves more frequently than they currently do (77%), and that the procedure would simplify testing (70%). Furthermore, 71% reported they would probably use it alone, 66% would use it with a steady partner, and 56% with a friend/partner. While a majority acknowledged that RHST use would deprive them of receiving counseling (61%), 74% declared they would go for help if they tested positive; 57% would use an RHST in order to avoid condoms. Probability of use surpassed 70% among gay and non-gay identified MSM as well as those with and without a previous HIV test. Those likely to buy RHST were older (p = 0.025) and more likely to identify as gay (p = 0.036). A total of 17% said they would think about killing themselves and 9% would attempt suicide if they tested positive. These MSM were more likely to be younger (p<0.001), with lower mood level (p<0.001) and greater feelings of loneliness (p = 0.026).
Conclusions The high acceptability of RHST found among MSM should encourage the authorities to consider the possibility of offering it for self-testing, as it can improve early diagnosis and prevention of future transmissions. However, further research is needed to understand how to

• 出版日期2017-7-3