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

PANDO MA; DOLEZAL C; MARONE R; BARREDA V; CARBALLO-DIÉGUEZ A; AVILA MM; BALAN I

PLOS ONE

PUBLIC LIBRARY SCIENCE

Lugar: San Francisco; Año: 2017

1932-6203

Introduction:The objective of this study was to explore the acceptability of rapid HIVself-testing (RHST) among men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods:During 2006-2009, a sample of 500 MSM was recruited through Respondent DrivenSampling for an HIV prevalence/incidence study. Attitude toward RHST wasexplored among HIV negative MSM. Data were weighted prior to analyses. Results:Participants reported they were likely to buy RHST (74%), test themselves morefrequently than they currently do (77%), and that the procedure would simplifytesting (70%).  Furthermore, 71% reportedthey 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 woulddeprive them of receiving counseling (61%), 74% declared they would go for helpif they tested positive; 57% would use an RHST in order to avoid condoms. Probabilityof use surpassed 70% among gay and non-gay identified MSM as well as those withand without a previous HIV test. Those likely to buy RHST were older (p=0.025) andmore likely to identify as gay (p=0.036). A total of 17% said they would thinkabout 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 foundamong MSM should encourage the authorities to consider the possibility ofoffering it for self-testing, as it can improve early diagnosis and preventionof future transmissions. However, further research is needed to understand howto best disseminate RHST among MSM who wish to use it and to offer support andlinkage to care for those who test HIV-positive.