Acceptability of venue-based HIV testing and prevention interventions for men who have sex with transgender women and transgender women in Lima, Perú: a formative, qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Despite being at elevated risk for HIV, men who have sex with transgender women (MSTW) are an overlooked population in the global HIV response. Venue-based HIV interventions have previously had success reaching other HIV priority populations, including transgender women (TW). Similar approaches could be applied for MSTW. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prospective acceptability of venue-based HIV testing and prevention interventions for MSTW and TW in Lima, Peru. METHODS: In this exploratory qualitative study, we conducted in-depth interviews (IDI) and focus group discussions (FGD) with three types of participants: MSTW (7 IDIs, 1 FGD), TW (1 FGD), and owners of social venues frequented by MSTW/TW in Lima (2 IDIs). We elicited participants' attitudes and perceptions related to the following four hypothetical interventions delivered at social venues in Lima: rapid HIV testing; HIV self-test distribution; condom/lubricant distribution; and enrolment in a mobile app supporting HIV prevention. We performed a mixed deductive-inductive thematic analysis using the framework method, then applied the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability to classify the overall acceptability of each intervention. RESULTS: Condom/lubricant distribution and app-based HIV prevention information were highly acceptable among all participant types. The two HIV testing interventions had relatively lower acceptability; however, participants suggested this could be overcome if such interventions focused on ensuring discretion, providing access to healthcare professionals, and offering appropriate incentives. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, MSTW and TW shared similar favourable attitudes towards venue-based HIV interventions. Venue-based outreach warrants further exploration as a strategy for engaging MSTW and TW in HIV prevention activities.

Asian People Reached by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention HIV Testing Program in the United States: HIV Testing, Linkage to HIV Medical Care, and Interview for Partner Services 2014-2020.

The purpose of this analysis is to describe HIV tests and associated outcomes for Asian people reached by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) HIV testing program. We analyzed CDC-funded HIV tests among Asian individuals in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands (2014-2020). Of the 415,560 tests, the positivity of new diagnoses was higher among males (0.49%, aPR = 7.64) than females (0.06%), and in the West (0.42%, aPR = 1.15) than in the South (0.25%). In non-health care settings, positivity was highest among men who have sex with men (MSM; 0.87%) and transgender people (0.46%). Linkage to HIV medical care among Asian people was 87.5%, and 70.7% were interviewed for partner services. Our findings suggest that improvements are crucial, particularly for Asian MSM, in linkage to care and interview for partner services.

Racial HIV Testing Inequalities in Adolescent Men who have Sex with Men and Transgender Women in Three Brazilian Cities.

Many barriers to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing among Black people exist. This study analysed the association between race/skin colour and lifetime HIV testing among adolescent men who have sex with men (AMSM) and transgender women (ATGW) in three Brazilian cities. This cross-sectional study was nested within the PrEP1519 cohort, a multicentre study of AMSM and ATGW aged 15-19 years in Belo Horizonte, Salvador, and São Paulo, Brazil. The outcome variable was the lifetime HIV testing (no or yes). The main exposure variable was self-reported race/skin colour as White and a unique Black group (composed of Pardo-mixed colour and Black, according to the Brazilian classification). Descriptive statistics and bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to estimate the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) to determine the association between the main exposure and outcome, adjusted for covariates. White adolescents were tested more frequently than the unique Black group (64.0% vs. 53.7%, respectively; Ρ = 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the unique Black group of AMSM and ATGW had 26% (adjusted OR [aOR], 0.74; 95% CI, 0.55-0.98) and 38% (aOR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.45-0.87) lower odds of being tested for HIV in a lifetime than Whites in model 1 and 2, respectively. Our findings highlight the role of racism in lifetime HIV testing among AMSM and ATGW. Therefore, an urgent need for advances exists in public policies to combat racism in Brazil.

RESUMEN: Existen numerosas barreras para la realización de las pruebas del virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) entre la población negra. Este estudio analizó la asociación entre la raza/color de piel y haber realizado pruebas de VIH a lo largo de la vida entre hombres adolescentes que tienen sexo con hombres (AHSH) y mujeres transgénero (AMTG) en tres ciudades brasileñas. Este estudio transversal es parte de la cohorte PrEP1519, un estudio multicéntrico de AHSH y AMTG de 15 a 19 años en Belo Horizonte, Salvador y São Paulo, Brasil. La variable de resultado fue haber realizado la prueba del VIH a lo largo de la vida (no o sí). La variable de exposición principal fue la raza/color de piel autoinformada, categorizada como blanca y un grupo negro único (compuesto por color pardo/mixto y negro, según la clasificación brasileña). Se realizaron estadísticas descriptivas y análisis de regresión logística bivariada y multivariada para estimar los odds ratios (OR) ajustados y los intervalos de confianza del 95% (IC del 95%) con el fin de determinar la asociación entre la exposición principal y el resultado, ajustado por covariables. Los adolescentes blancos se hicieron la prueba del VIH con más frecuencia que el grupo negro único (64,0% frente a 53,7%, respectivamente; Ρ = 0,001). El análisis de regresión logística múltiple reveló que el grupo negro único de AHSH y AMTG tenía 26% (OR ajustado [aOR], 0,74; IC 95%, 0,55­0,98) y 38% (aOR, 0,62; IC 95%, 0,45­0,87) menores probabilidades de realizarse la prueba del VIH a lo largo de su vida que los blancos en los modelos 1 y 2, respectivamente. Nuestros hallazgos resaltan la influencia del racismo en la realización de pruebas de VIH a lo largo de la vida entre AHSH y AMTG. Por lo tanto, es urgente avanzar en la implementación de políticas públicas para combatir el racismo en Brasil.

Trends and factors associated with recent HIV testing among women in Haiti: a cross-sectional study using data from nationally representative surveys.

INTRODUCTION: In the Latin America and Caribbean region, Haiti is one of the countries with the highest rates of HIV. Therefore, this study examined the factors associated with HIV testing among women in Haiti and trends in HIV testing in 2006, 2012, and 2016/17. METHODS: Data from the last three Haitian Demographic and Health Surveys (2006, 2012, and 2016/17) were used. The analysis was restricted to women aged of 15-49 years who made their sexual debut. STATA/SE 16.0 was employed to analyze the data by computing descriptive statistics, Chi­square, and multilevel regression model to describe the trends and identify factors associated with HIV testing in Haiti. P-value less than 0.05 was taken as a significant association. RESULTS: HIV testing prevalence increased more than twofold from 2006 (8.8%) to 2017 (21.3%); however, it decreased by 11.6% between 2012 and 2016/17. Additionally, the results indicated that age, place of residence, region, education level, wealth index, mass media exposure, marital status, health insurance, age at first sex and number of sexual partners were significantly associated with HIV testing. CONCLUSIONS: To significantly increase HIV testing prevalence among women, the Haitian government must invest much more in their health education while targeting vulnerable groups (youth, women in union, and women with low economic status).

Access to HIV/STI testing among male and female Venezuelan migrants in Peru: evidence from a nationwide survey.

BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are major global public health issues. Migrants represent a vulnerable group that faces multiple barriers to access to healthcare services, including HIV/STI testing. This study aimed to assess the factors associated with access to HIV/STI testing in male and female Venezuelan migrants in Peru. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving secondary data analysis of the 2022 Venezuelan Population Residing in Peru Survey. The study was conducted in the eight most populated cities inhabited by Venezuelan migrants and refugees. For each city, the sampling design was probabilistic, stratified, and independent. The outcome variable was whether participants had access to HIV or other STI testing during their stay in Peru. Statistical analysis was stratified by sex owing to potential effect modification. Crude and adjusted prevalence ratios were calculated using generalized linear models Poisson family with log link function. Confidence intervals were calculated to 95%. RESULTS: A total of 3,723 male and 3,984 female migrants were included. Access to HIV/STI testing among male and female migrants was 19.85% and 25.16%, respectively. Among male migrants, being LGBTI, health insured, and married or cohabiting were associated with increased access to HIV/STI testing. Among females, those aged 18-44 years, those who were married or cohabiting and were health insured, and those residing for more than 1 year in Peru were significantly more likely to have access to HIV/STI testing. Moreover, physical/mental disability and unemployed status were associated with a lower probability of HIV/STI testing in females. CONCLUSIONS: Only two in ten Venezuelan migrants and refugees in Peru were screened for HIV/STI, with fewer males than females. Sex-specific sociodemographic, health-related, and migration-related variables were independently associated with access to HIV/STI testing.

Measuring Socioeconomic Inequalities in HIV Testing During Antenatal Care: A Peruvian National Survey.

Although several Latin American countries have 70% antenatal care coverage, the proportion of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing of Peruvian pregnant women and the socioeconomic inequalities of this preventive measure are unknown. This study aimed to determine socioeconomic inequalities and quantify the contribution of contextual and compositional factors on HIV testing during prenatal care in Peru. A cross-sectional study of the 2021 Demographic and Family Health Survey data was conducted. The outcome variable was HIV testing of pregnant women during prenatal care. An analysis of inequalities was performed including the determination of concentration curves and a decomposition analysis of concentration indices. Of a total of 17521 women aged 15 to 49 years, 91.4% had been tested for HIV during prenatal care. The concentration curves showed that prenatal HIV testing was concentrated among richer women, while the decomposition analysis determined that the main contributors to inequality were having a higher education, residing in an urban area, and in the highlands, belonging to the wealthy quintile, and being exposed to television and newspapers. Strategies focused on improving access, promotion and restructuring of prevention of mother-to-child transmission measures should be prioritized.

Promoção da saúde e biomedicalização: balanço crítico da literatura sobre testagem do HIV (2010-2019) / Health promotion and biomedicalization: a critical review of the literature on HIV testing (2010-2029)

Resumo As atuais diretrizes globais e nacional para controle do HIV/aids denotam uma acentuada ênfase biomédica, expressa na ampliação do acesso ao teste do HIV, visando o diagnóstico precoce, o encaminhamento para tratamento e a redução da carga viral. Por meio de um balanço crítico da literatura nacional e internacional, objetivamos identificar como a noção de promoção da saúde tem sido concebida na produção acadêmica sobre testagem do HIV entre mulheres trans/travestis, gays/outros HSH (homens que fazem sexo com homens) e mulheres cis trabalhadoras sexuais, no período entre 2010 e 2019. Os achados confirmam a tendência de biomedicalização no modo de conceber e operacionalizar programas e ações de testagem de HIV, bem como usos diferenciados da noção de promoção da saúde. Na literatura sobre gays/HSH, tal noção é empregada, predominantemente, como suporte para as estratégias de expansão de acesso ao teste, não se diferenciando da noção de prevenção. Na literatura sobre mulheres trans/travestis e trabalhadoras sexuais, majoritariamente, o teste de HIV está subordinado a uma agenda de debates e reflexões mais amplas de promoção da saúde. Os resultados permitem uma reflexão sobre como o processo de biomedicalização opera uma reconfiguração dos sentidos e práticas associados à prevenção e à promoção da saúde.

Abstract The current global and Brazilian guidelines to control HIV/AIDS have shown a strong biomedical emphasis, stressing the importance of expanding access to HIV testing, aiming at early diagnosis, referral for treatment, and reduction of viral load. By critically reviewing the national and international literature, we aimed to identify how academic production on HIV testing among trans women/ travestis , gay men/other MSM, and cis women sex workers that has been published from 2010 to 2019 has conceived health promotion. Findings confirm the trend of biomedicalization in the conception and operationalization of HIV testing programs and actions and found other uses of the notion of health promotion. The literature on gay men/MSM predominantly use this notion to support strategies to expand access to the test, not differentiating it from to distinguish it from the notion of prevention. The literature on trans women/ travestis and sex workers mostly subordinates the HIV test to a broader agenda of debates and reflections on health promotion. Results enable a reflection on how the biomedicalization process reconfigures the meanings and practices associated with prevention and health promotion.

Mapping projects for expanding rapid HIV testing in key populations, Brazil, 2004-2021 / Projetos de mapeamento para a expansão da testagem rápida para HIV em populações-chave, Brasil, 2004-2021 / Proyectos para mapear la expansión de las pruebas rápidas del VIH en poblaciones clave, Brasil, 2004-2021

Abstract: The HIV/AIDS epidemic remains a persistent and real issue, especially in key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM), travestis and transgender persons. Projects for expanding rapid HIV testing are strategic initiatives aimed at the earliest possible identification of individuals' serological status and thus early treatment, screening of sex partners, and upscaling of preventive actions to interrupt the transmission chain. This study thus maps, describes, and systematizes the projects for expanding rapid HIV testing implemented from 2004 to 2021 in Brazil, highlighting the on-going contribution of civil society organizations and discussing the interoperability and cooperation resulting from public governance processes. We selected 67 documents for analysis, including 30 scientific publications retrieved from electronic databases and 37 documents produced by government institutions and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Find Out (Fique Sabendo), I Want to Get Tested (Quero Fazer), The Time is Now (A Hora É Agora), Live Better Knowing (Viva Melhor Sabendo), and Live Better Knowing Young (Viva Melhor Sabendo Jovem) were the projects mapped. Results show that the projects have used strategies adapted to the key population, such as mobile testing units, peer education, and innovative community engagement approaches. Such actions were enabled by effective cooperation and interoperability between participating stakeholders, especially NGOs.

Resumo: A epidemia de HIV/aids está longe de terminar. Ainda é muito real, especialmente em populações-chave, como homens que fazem sexo com homens (HSH), travestis e pessoas transgênero. Projetos de ampliação da testagem rápida anti-HIV são iniciativas estratégicas que visam à identificação mais precoce possível do status sorológico dos indivíduos e, consequentemente, ao tratamento precoce, à triagem de parceiros sexuais e à ampliação das ações preventivas para interrupção da cadeia de transmissão. Assim, este estudo se propõe a mapear, descrever e sistematizar os projetos de expansão da testagem rápida para HIV realizados de 2004 a 2021 no Brasil, destacando a contribuição em curso das organizações da sociedade civil e discutindo a interoperabilidade e a cooperação resultantes dos processos de governança pública. Foram selecionados 67 documentos para análise, incluindo 30 publicações científicas recuperadas de bases de dados eletrônicas e 37 documentos produzidos por instituições governamentais e organizações não governamentais (ONGs). Os projetos mapeados foram: Fique Sabendo, Quero Fazer, A Hora É Agora, Viva Melhor Sabendo e Viva Melhor Sabendo Jovem. Os resultados mostram que os projetos utilizaram estratégias adaptadas à população-chave, como unidades móveis de testagem, educação entre pares e abordagens inovadoras de engajamento comunitário. Tais ações foram possíveis graças à cooperação e interoperabilidade efetivas entre as partes interessadas participantes, especialmente as ONGs.

Resumen: La epidemia de VIH/SIDS está lejos de terminar. Sigue siendo muy real, sobre todo en poblaciones clave, como hombres que tienen sexo con hombres (HSH), travestís y personas transgénero. Proyectos para ampliar las pruebas rápidas anti-VIH son iniciativas estratégicas que tienen el objetivo de identificar el estado serológico de las personas lo antes posible y, consiguientemente, hacer el tratamiento precoz, el triaje de las parejas sexuales y ampliar las acciones preventivas para interrumpir la cadena de transmisión. Así, este estudio tiene el objetivo de mapear, describir y sistematizar los proyectos de expansión de las pruebas rápidas del VIH realizados entre 2004 y 2021 en Brasil, resaltando la contribución en curso de los organismos de la sociedad civil y discutiendo la interoperabilidad y la cooperación que resultan de los procesos de gobernanza pública. Se seleccionaron 67 documentos para el análisis, entre ellos 30 publicaciones científicas recuperadas de bases de datos electrónicas y 37 documentos producidos por instituciones gubernamentales y organizaciones no gubernamentales (ONGs). Los proyectos mapeados fueron: Para que Sepas (Fique Sabendo), Quiero Hacer (Quero Fazer), La Hora Es Ahora (A Hora É Agora), Viva Mejor Sabiendo (Viva Melhor Sabendo) y Viva Mejor Sabiendo Joven (Viva Melhor Sabendo Jovem). Los resultados demuestran que los proyectos utilizaron estrategias adaptadas a la población clave, como las unidades móviles de prueba, educación entre pares y enfoques innovadores de participación comunitaria. Estas acciones fueron posibles gracias a la cooperación e interoperabilidad efectivas entre las partes interesadas participantes, sobre todo las ONGs.

HIV/AIDS knowledge level, awareness of public health centers and related factors: a cross-sectional study among Brazilians in Japan.

BACKGROUND: Accurate information is essential so that HIV infection can be detected in time for initiation of HIV/AIDS treatment. Immigrants are at high risk for delayed HIV testing and diagnosis, but foreign residents in Japan also seem to face barriers to accessing HIV/AIDS care. We aimed to assess their knowledge level of HIV/AIDS and awareness of public health centers in Japan (PHCs), and to explore factors related to these items. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study of Brazilians, the largest group of foreigners living in Shiga, using an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire survey in Brazilian Portuguese and Japanese via the Internet and mail. A multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine the factors related to "Knowledge of HIV/AIDS" and "Awareness of PHCs". RESULTS: A total 182 Brazilians responded. More than half of them were beginners in Japanese. Most respondents were familiar with HIV/AIDS, but only 58% knew the existence of PHCs, and only 25% knew that HIV testing is available at PHCs free of charge and anonymously. A multiple logistic regression analysis showed that PHCs were less recognized by those with intermediate (odds ratio: 5.70, 95% confidence interval: 1.53-21.23) and beginner (odds ratio: 6.81, 95% confidence interval: 1.98-23.45) Japanese proficiency than by those with advanced. CONCLUSIONS: This survey revealed the knowledge level of HIV/AIDS and awareness of PHC among Brazilians in Shiga. Their lack of awareness of PHCs due to language barriers may lead to delays in HIV testing among them. Therefore, it is important for PHCs to disseminate information about medical services related to HIV/AIDS in Portuguese and plain Japanese to facilitate their access to HIV testing. However, PHC efforts alone are not enough. Medical interpreters who are familiar with Brazilian culture and customs, and the clinics that employ them, could help the Brazilian community and PHCs to overcome the language barrier and provide efficient and appropriate medical care to Brazilians. This would be one way to eliminate delays in HIV testing for Brazilians in Shiga.

Conocimientos sobre VIH/SIDA y disposición para la realización de la prueba de VIH en adolescentes escolarizados / Knowledge about HIV/AIDS and disposition to HIV testing in adolescents schooled

INTRODUCCIÓN: los adolescentes experimentan varios cambios que pudieran determinar la presencia de conductas de riesgo, uno de los aspectos es la sexualidad responsable principalmente ante la prevención de VIH/SIDA. OBJETIVO: Determinar la relación entre el conocimiento sobre VIH/SIDA y la disposición a realizarse la prueba del VIH en adolescentes escolarizados de Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, México. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: estudio descriptivo-correlacional llevado a cabo en 241 adolescentes que decidieron participar de manera voluntaria en la investigación, se utilizó la escala de Conocimientos hacia el VIH/SIDA y la Escala de Pros y Contras hacia la prueba de VIH, los datos fueron capturados y analizados en el programa estadístico SPSS V23. RESULTADOS: 18,7% de los adolescentes manifestó una vida sexualmente activa, 1,7% señalo haberse realizado la prueba de VIH anteriormente. Se obtuvieron diferencias significativas (p= <0,05) por sexo, donde los conocimientos hacia el VIH/SIDA y pros hacia la prueba de VIH fueron mayores en las mujeres, además se identificó una relación positiva y significativa de los conocimientos de los adolescentes hacia el VIH/SIDA y los pros hacia la prueba de VIH (rs= 0,213, p= 0,001). CONCLUSIÓN: durante la adolescencia se conciben los conocimientos, pros y contras ante la detección del VIH/SIDA, lo que pudiera ser un punto de partida para una sexualidad responsable este grupo etario.

INTRODUCTION: Adolescents experience various changes that could determine the presence of risk behaviors, one of the aspects is sexuality responsible mainly for the prevention of HIV/AIDS. OBJECTIVE: To determine the relationship between knowledge about HIV/AIDS and the willingness to undergo an HIV test in school adolescents from Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, Mexico. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Descriptive correlational study carried out in 241 adolescents who decided to voluntarily participate in the research, the Knowledge scale towards HIV/AIDS and the Scale of Pros and Cons towards the HIV test were used, the data were captured and analyzed in the statistical program SPSS V23. RESULTS: 18.7% of students manifested to have a sexually active life, whereas 1.7% of students indicated having previously an HIV test. Significant differences were obtained (p=<0.05) by sex where knowledge towards HIV and pros towards HIV testing were higher in women, furthermore, a positive and meaningful relationship of knowledge of adolescents towards HIV/AIDS and pros towards HIV testing were identified (rs=0.213, p=0.001). CONCLUSION: During adolescence, the knowledge, pros and cons of detecting HIV/AIDS are conceived, which could be a starting point for responsible sexuality in this age group.

Mapping evidence on health promotion in HIV testing among men who have sex with men and transgender women using the social-ecological model and the vulnerability theoretical framework: a scoping review.

This study aimed to map the scientific evidence on health promotion in human immunodeficiency virus) HIV testing among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) based on the social-ecological model (i.e., individual, organizational and social levels) and the theoretical framework of vulnerability (i.e., individual, social, and programmatic levels). The reviewed studies indicated several barriers to accessing HIV testing (e.g., economic, structural, and bureaucratic) and demonstrated the potential for community approaches to promote greater access to HIV testing and minimize the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV testing, primarily through community leadership and social support networks. The socio-ecological model of health promotion and the vulnerability approach have the potential to contribute to improving HIV testing services by balancing the technical and political power of health services and providers with community participation while considering the social contexts. Therefore, there is a need for reflection on health promotion policies and programs aimed at expanding access to HIV testing among MSM and TGW through interventions that consider the social contexts and cultural perspectives. Moreover, inter-sectoral strategies aimed at improving living conditions and access to fundamental resources for maintaining health and well-being should be considered.

O diagnóstico do HIV na atenção primária à saúde: uma revisão realista / HIV diagnosis in primary health care: a realistic review / El diagnóstico de VIH en atención primaria de salud: una revisión realista

É fundamental a identificação e a compreensão das estratégias empregadas na atenção primária à saúde para a oferta do diagnóstico do vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV), de modo a possibilitar o planejamento de políticas que promovam o início oportuno da terapia antirretroviral para garantir uma melhor qualidade de vida às pessoas que vivem com HIV. Desse modo, o estudo objetivou elaborar preceitos teóricos a partir das evidências científicas acerca das estratégias para a oferta do diagnóstico do HIV na atenção primária. Trata-se de uma revisão realista, realizada a partir de levantamento conduzido em seis bases de dados no ano de 2022, que teve como questão norteadora: quais são as estratégias para a oferta do diagnóstico da infecção pelo HIV na atenção primária à saúde? Foram incluídos oito estudos. No que se refere a estratégias empregadas e público-alvo, observou-se o predomínio de testes de rotina (n = 5) nas unidades básicas de saúde para a população adscrita, sem especificação de idade e/ou grupo (n = 4). A partir disso emergiu o seguinte preceito teórico: estratégias para a oferta de testes de HIV na atenção primária à saúde, com abordagens holísticas, pautadas na relação profissional-usuário e em condições rotineiras apresentam melhor receptividade pela população adscrita e contribuem para a redução do estigma associado. Sugere-se, assim, que as ações de testagem de HIV valorizem práticas integrais ao usuário em suas consultas de rotina e sejam livres de discriminação e julgamento, a fim de que o estigma associado à infecção deixe de ser um fator limitador para a testagem.

It is essential to identify and understand the strategies employed in primary health care to offer diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), to enable the planning of policies that promote the timely initiation of antiretroviral therapy to guarantee a better quality of life for people who live with HIV. Thus, the study aimed to develop theoretical precepts based on scientific evidence about strategies for offering HIV diagnosis in Primary Care. This is a realistic review, carried out from a screening in six databases in the year 2022, which had as its guiding question: what are the strategies for offering the diagnosis of HIV infection in primary health care?. A total of eight studies were included. Regarding the strategies employed and the target audience, there was a predominance of routine tests (n = 5) in basic health units for the enrolled population, without specifying age and/or group (n = 4). From this, the following theoretical precept emerged: strategies for offering HIV tests in primary health care, with holistic approaches, based on the professional-user relationship and under routine conditions show more receptivity of the enrolled population and contribute to reduce the associated stigma. It is suggested, therefore, that HIV testing actions should value integral practices for the user in their routine consultations and be free of discrimination and judgments, so that the stigma associated with the infection ceases to be a limiting factor for testing.

Es fundamental identificar y comprender las estrategias empleadas en la atención primaria de salud para ofrecer el diagnóstico del virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH), con el fin de posibilitar la planificación de políticas que promuevan el inicio oportuno de la terapia antirretroviral y, así, garantizar una mejor calidad de vida a las personas que viven con el VIH. Así, este estudio tuvo como objetivo desarrollar preceptos teóricos basados en evidencia científica sobre estrategias para ofrecer el diagnóstico de VIH en la atención primaria. Se trata de una revisión realista, realizada en seis bases de datos en el año 2022, que se basó en la siguiente pregunta orientadora: ¿Cuáles son las estrategias para ofrecer el diagnóstico de infección por VIH en la atención primaria de salud? Se incluyeron ocho estudios. En cuanto a las estrategias empleadas y el público objetivo, hubo predominio de las pruebas de rutina (n = 5) en las unidades básicas de salud para la población en estudio, sin precisar edad y/o grupo (n = 4). De allí surgió el siguiente precepto teórico: las estrategias de oferta de pruebas de VIH en la atención primaria de salud, con enfoques holísticos, basadas en la relación profesional-usuario y en condiciones de rutina son más receptivas a la población inscrita y contribuyen a la reducción del estigma asociado. Se recomienda, por tanto, que las acciones de prueba del VIH deben valorar prácticas integrales para el usuario en sus consultas de rutina y estar libres de discriminación y juicios, para que el estigma asociado a la infección deje de ser un factor limitante para la prueba.

Trends and factors associated with HIV testing among women aged 15-49 years in Belize: an analysis using the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2006, 2011, and 2015-2016.

BACKGROUND: Belize has one of the highest human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome prevalence rates in Central America, with women of reproductive age being particularly vulnerable to HIV. Therefore, this study examined the factors associated with HIV testing among women of reproductive age in Belize and trends in HIV testing in 2006, 2011, and 2015-2016. METHODS: Cross-sectional data were analyzed using three Belize Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys. The number of participants were 1,675, 4,096, and 4,699 women aged 15-49 years in 2006, 2011, and 2015-2016, respectively. We used variance-weighted least-squares regression to estimate annual changes. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the associated factors. Analyses were conducted using Stata version 15, and weights were applied for generalization to the population. RESULTS: HIV testing rates increased from 47.7% in 2006 to 66.5% in 2015, with an average annual change of 0.082 (95% confidence interval: 0.07-0.09). Logistic regression models showed that women aged 15-24 years were less likely to have been tested for HIV compared to women aged 25-34 years. Women from the Mayan ethnic group were less likely to have been tested than those from other ethnic groups. Compared to women who spoke Spanish, those who spoke English/Creole were more likely to have been tested for HIV; additionally, those who spoke minority languages were less likely to have been tested. Being married and having given birth were associated with increased odds of HIV testing. Living in rural areas and households with the poorest wealth indices were associated with decreased odds of being tested for HIV. Women with good HIV knowledge and accepting attitudes towards people living with HIV were more likely to be tested. CONCLUSIONS: From 2006 to 2015, HIV testing in women of reproductive age showed an increasing trend in Belize. We recommend interventions to expand HIV testing for women of reproductive age in Belize, particularly those aged 15-24 years, speaking minority languages, living in rural areas, and having a low socioeconomic status.

Strategies to increase HIV testing among men who have sex with men and transgender women: an integrative review.

BACKGROUND: Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) are disproportionately affected by HIV, with much higher incidence and prevalence rates than in the general population in different countries. There are several barriers to testing among MSM and TGW, such as low risk perception, anticipation of HIV-related stigma, discrimination of sexual orientation, in addition to difficulties related to care and access to health services. Therefore, analyzing the available evidence of the effectiveness of strategies for scaling up HIV testing among key populations is essential to point out potential knowledge gaps which may need to be addressed and develop public health policies to promote testing and early diagnosis of HIV infection. METHODS: An integrative review was carried out to evaluate strategies for scaling up HIV testing in these populations. Search strategy was performed on eight electronic databases, without language restriction. We included clinical trials, quasi-experimental studies, and non-randomized studies. Study selection and data extraction were both performed independently by pairs and disagreements were solved by a third revisor. The screening of the studies was carried out through the selection of titles/abstracts and the reading of the full texts of the pre-selected studies based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Data extraction was performed using a structured form. RESULTS: Thirty-seven publications referring to 35 studies were included, mostly being carried out in the United States of America and Australia. No studies were found evaluating disaggregated data on TGW. The studies were grouped into four types of intervention strategies: self-test distribution system (n = 10), organization of health services (n = 9), peer education (n = 6), and social marketing campaign (n = 10). Strategies that focused on the first three groups, combined or not, were more effective in increasing HIV testing among MSM. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the diversity of interventions and the methodological heterogeneity of the included studies, strategies especially involving self-test distribution systems, associated with new information and communication technologies, should be evaluated in different communities and social contexts. Research evaluating specific studies on TGW population is still needed.

Aceitabilidade ao autoteste de HIV entre adolescentes Homens que fazem Sexo com Homens, travestis e mulheres transexuais em três capitais brasileiras / Acceptability of HIV self-test among adolescent Men who have Sex with Men, travestis and transgender women in Brazil

RESUMO Introdução: O objetivo deste estudo é analisar a aceitabilidade do autoteste de HIV entre adolescentes Homens que fazem Sexo com Homens e mulheres travestis e transexuais em três capitais brasileiras. Método: estudo qualitativo, com 6 Grupos Focais e 37 Entrevistas em profundidade, envolvendo 58 participantes, nas cidades de Belo Horizonte, Salvador e São Paulo, cuja análise temática de conteúdo orientou-se pelo Theoretical Framework of Acceptability. Resultados: boa aceitabilidade do autoteste de HIV, ainda que não homogênea entre participantes. Entre os aspectos positivos dos testes estão, por exemplo, a agilidade, a privacidade, a autonomia no monitoramento da própria saúde e a gestão emocional e de estigma. Em outra direção tem-se a preocupação em como lidar com um eventual resultado reagente e o questionamento do autoteste como estratégia de prevenção. O local de dispensação do autoteste é decisivo para potencializar ou não o uso, a depender da competência cultural para acolher a diversidade sexual e de identidade de gênero de adolescentes. Conclusão: Este estudo identificou o autoteste de HIV como uma estratégia fundamental para o incremento da autonomia e autocuidado entre adolescentes. Estas devem ser consideradas para maior adequação às culturas juvenis locais e, consequentemente, maior adesão à testagem.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The objective of this study is to analyze the acceptability of the HIV self-test among male adolescents who have sex with male and transgender women in three Brazilian capitals. Method: qualitative study, with 6 focus groups and 37 in-depth interviews with 58 participants, from the cities of Belo Horizonte, Salvador and São Paulo, whose thematic analysis was based on the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability. Results: the HIV self-test had good acceptability, although it was not homogeneous among participating adolescents. Positive aspects include, for example, agility, privacy, autonomy, monitoring one's health, and emotional and stigma management. In another direction are concerns about how to deal with an eventual reactive result and whether self-testing is a prevention strategy. The place where self-tests are given out is decisive to improving their use, which depends on cultural competence to accommodate sexual and gender diversities of adolescents. Conclusion: This study has shown that HIV self-testing is a fundamental strategy to increase adolescent autonomy and self-care. These should be considered to better adapt the test to local youth cultures and, consequently, achieve better compliance.

Examining the Correlates of HIV Testing for Venezuelan Migrants in Trinidad.

An important preventive measure in the fight against the HIV epidemic is the adoption of HIV testing. The government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago conducted a registration exercise in 2019 for undocumented migrants and refugees from Venezuela residing in the country. These migrants were allowed access to the public health system. In this study, we observed the correlates of HIV testing in Venezuelan migrants residing in Trinidad. A convenience sample of n = 250 migrants was collected via telephone survey from September through December 2020. Variables of interest included social factors, health needs, and uptake of HIV testing. Pearson χ2 tests examined the associations between study variables, and multivariable logistic regression with backward elimination produced the odds of taking an HIV test. In our study, 40.8% of migrants reported having received an HIV test since arriving in Trinidad. Persons who migrated with family or friends had greater odds of getting an HIV test relative to persons who arrived alone (OR = 2.912, 95% CI: 1.002-8.466), and migrants who knew where to get an HIV test also greater odds of getting a test relative to person who did not know where to get a test (OR = 3.173, 95% CI: 1.683-5.982). Migrants with known physical health problems had greater odds of getting an HIV test relative to migrants without these health problems (OR = 1.856, 95% CI: 1.032-3.337). Persons who arrived with family or friends had greater odds of experiencing difficulties accessing public health care relative to persons who arrived alone (OR = 3.572, 95% CI: 1.352-9.442). Migrants earning between $1000 and $2999 TT per month had greater odds of experiencing trouble accessing public health services relative to persons who had monthly earnings of less than $1000 TT (OR = 2.567, 95% CI: 1.252-5.264). This was the first quantitative study on HIV testing among Venezuelan migrants in Trinidad. Migrants still experience difficulties accessing healthcare, which, in turn influences national HIV prevention and control efforts. The results gathered may help in developing HIV prevention plans that are led by a national health policy that takes migrant communities' needs into account.

Analysis of combined prevention measures on HIV/AIDS incidence in Brazil (1980-2020) / Análise de medidas de prevenção combinadas sobre a incidência de HIV/AIDS no Brasil (1980­2020)

Introduction: The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks the immune system, with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) being the most advanced clinical manifestation. Prevention strategies have evolved over time in response to scientific advancements. From an institutional perspective, the Unified Health System (SUS) provides tools for Combined Prevention to the entire Brazilian population, universally and free of charge. However, despite therapeutic advances, HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health problem. Objective: To analyze the impact of Combined Prevention measures on the incidence of HIV/AIDS in Brazil from 1980 to 2020. Methods: Quantitative, observational, longitudinal, and retrospective study. Descriptive and multivariate analyses were conducted, specifically employing linear regression techniques. The variables of interest included case incidence and the distribution of: tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), condoms, post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PEP), and pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PrEP). Publicly available data were sourced from governmental repositories. Results: The country has accumulated 1,037,878 infection cases, with an average of 25,947 new cases per year. Regarding prophylaxis inputs, five out of six variables demonstrated a negative correlation with the incidence rate, with only the distribution of male condoms showing a positive correlation. The analysis of the effect of PrEP was not statistically significant. Conclusion:Brazil has reduced the incidence of the disease as Combined Prevention measures have advanced. More time is needed to assess the impact of PrEP on the incidence of new cases.

Introdução: O vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) ataca o sistema imunológico. A síndrome da imunodeficiência adquirida (AIDS) é a manifestação clínica mais avançada. As estratégias de prevenção evoluíram ao longo do tempo conforme os avanços científicos. Do ponto de vista institucional, o Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) disponibiliza ferramentas de prevenção combinada a toda a população brasileira de forma gratuita e universal. Contudo, apesar de todos os avanços terapêuticos, o HIV/AIDS continua sendo um grave problema de saúde pública. Objetivo: Analisar as medidas de prevenção combinada sobre a incidência de HIV/AIDS no Brasil no período entre 1980 e 2020. Métodos: Quantitativo, observacional, longitudinal e retrospectivo. Estatisticamente, foram realizadas análises descritiva e multivariada, mais especificamente a técnica de correção linear. As variáveis de interesse foram a incidência de caso e as distribuições de: testes para infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST), preservativos, profilaxia pós-exposição sexual ao HIV (PEP) e a profilaxia pré-exposição ao HIV (PrEP). Os dados utilizados são de caráter público e obtidos em repositórios governamentais. Resultados: O país acumula 1.037.878 casos de infecção, com média de 25.947 novos casos por ano. Quanto aos insumos de profilaxia, cinco das seis variáveis demonstraram correlação negativa com a taxa de incidência. Apenas a distribuição de preservativos masculinos teve correlação positiva. A análise do efeito da PrEP não foi estatisticamente significativa. Conclusão: O Brasil tem reduzido a incidência da doença à medida que avançam as medidas de prevenção combinada. É necessário mais tempo para analisar o impacto da PrEP na incidência de novos casos

Examining Geographical Differences in the HIV Care Continuum Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Mexico.

We analyzed data collected by the Encuesta de Sexo Entre Hombres study from 15,233 Mexican men who have sex with men (MSM) between May-July 2017 to examine differences in the HIV care continuum. Data were stratified into 6 geographical regions. Prevalence ratios assessed associations between region and care outcomes. Among participants never testing HIV positive (n = 13,583), 66.1% had ever been tested and 43.0% in the past year. Among HIV-positive persons (n = 1,650), 83.9% reported counseling post-diagnosis, 61.9% timely linkage to care, 42.4% timely CD4/viral load results, 38.2% timely access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), and 87.7% were currently on ART. The Ciudad de México /Estado de México region had significantly superior care continuum outcomes in ever and recent HIV testing, linkage to care, CD4/viral load results, and current ART use. Understanding geographical variations in HIV care for MSM in Mexico is one important step to inform efforts for ending HIV/AIDS by 2030 in Latin America.

RESUMEN: Analizamos los datos de 15,233 hombres mexicanos que tienen sexo con hombres (HSH) recopilados entre mayo y julio de 2017 por el estudio Encuesta de Sexo Entre Hombres para examinar las diferencias en el continuo de la atención del VIH. Los datos se estratificaron en seis regiones geográficas. Se utilizaron razones de prevalencia para evaluar las asociaciones entre la región y los resultados de la atención. Entre los participantes sin prueba de VIH positiva (n = 13 583), el 66.1% se había hecho la prueba alguna vez en su vida y el 43.0% en el último año. Entre las personas que refirieron pruebas de VIH positivas (n = 1 650), el 83.9% informó asesoramiento post-diagnóstico, el 61.9% vinculación oportuna a la atención, el 42.4% resultados oportunos de CD4/carga viral, el 38.2% acceso oportuno a la terapia antirretroviral (TAR) y el 87.7% continuaba en TAR. La región de la Ciudad de México/Estado de México tuvo resultados del continuo de la atención significativamente superiores en pruebas de VIH pasadas y recientes, vinculación con la atención, resultados de carga viral/CD4 y uso actual de TAR. Comprender las variaciones geográficas de la atención del VIH en HSH en México es un paso importante para informar los esfuerzos para poner fin a la epidemia de HIV/Sida para 2030 en Latinoamérica.

HIV testing inside Brazilian female prisons: results of a national survey.

This study aimed to identify the prevalence of women in prisons who have already had an HIV test inside prison and the factors associated with this test. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 1327 women in 15 prisons in 9 states in Brazil. Almost 60% (95% CI: 57.8-63.7) of women have already been tested for HIV in prison. The factors associated with this HIV test were age ≥41 years (OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.2-2.9), highest level of education (OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.3-2.8), having been arrested 3 or more times (OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.3-2.8), having received information about HIV/STI in the lifetime (OR = 1.4; 95% CI = 1.1-1.9) and perceived themselves to be at no risk for HIV infection (OR = 1.7; 95% CI = 1.2-2.5), black or mixed race (OR = 0.7; 95% CI = 0.5-0.9) and having a male sexual partner (OR = 0.6; 95% CI = 0.5-0.9). The routine HIV testing in prisons needs to be expanded to promote HIV prevention for a population with limited access to these services outside of prison.

HIV Knowledge, Risk Behaviors, and Testing Among Chinese-, Korean-, and Vietnamese-American Women.

The relationship between HIV knowledge and testing behavior is poorly understood among young Chinese-, Korean-, and Vietnamese-American women. This study assesses: (1) levels of HIV/AIDS knowledge, (2) lifetime and annual prevalence of HIV testing, and (3) whether higher levels of HIV knowledge were associated with increased likelihood of testing after controlling for HIV risk behaviors. Fifty-one percent reported lifetime HIV testing (n=117); among those tested, 53% were tested within the past year. A significant and positive association between scores on the HIV Knowledge Questionnaire (HIV KQ-45) and HIV testing was identified. This association was no longer statistically significant after controlling for sexual risk behaviors. Participants were most knowledgeable about HIV symptoms (88.6%) and least knowledgeable about treatment options (56.8%). Future studies should further characterize cultural factors affecting these women's sexual practices, as well develop culturally adapted HIV educational interventions to increase HIV knowledge and testing rates.