HIV testing coverage among female sex workers, Brazil, 2016

Abstract

Introduction: Knowing the factors associated with periodic HIV testing among female sex workers (FSW) is essential to expand testing coverage and to broaden programs of treatment as prevention. Methods: We used data from 4,328 FSWs recruited by the respondent-driven sampling (RDS) method in 12 Brazilian cities in 2016. Data analysis considered the complex sampling design. The prevalence of HIV testing in the last year and periodic HIV test were estimated. Factors associated with regular HIV testing were identified through logistic regression models. Results: The testing coverage in the last year was 39.3%. Only 13.5% of FSW reported having performed a periodic HIV test in the last year. Among the factors associated with the higher probability of HIV testing in the last year were a better level of education, living with a partner, working indoors, consistent use of condoms, and regular use of public and private health services stood out. Discussion: Periodic HIV testing allows early diagnosis and immediate treatment of cases, reducing the chances of spreading the infection to the population. However, factors such as stigma and discrimination hinder the use of regular health services. Conclusion: It is necessary to expand awareness campaigns, especially among FSWs with low educational level and greater vulnerability, in order to broaden the perception of risk and the importance of periodic testing, in addition to encouraging regular health care.

Acceptability of HIV self-testing is low among men who have sex with men who have not tested for HIV: a study with respondent-driven sampling in Brazil

“…Recently, HIV testing has been made available in Primary Health Care (PHC) clinics in the Brazilian National Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde: SUS) [16]. However, the primary beneficiaries of this program are pregnant women [17], and coverage among sexual minorities remains low [18,19]. Stigma and discrimination towards MSM in Brazil are high, and is considered a barrier to HIV testing [20][21][22].…”

Acceptability of HIV self-testing is low among MSM who have not tested: a study with respondent-driven sampling in Brazil

“…Recently, HIV test is available in Primary Health Care (PHC) clinics of the Brazilian National Health System (SUS) [16]. However, the bene t of this program is mainly for pregnant women [17], and the coverage among sexual minorities remains low [18,19]. Stigma and discrimination towards MSM in Brazil are high and one of the barrier to access health care services and HIV test especially at PHC [20][21][22].…”

Acceptability of HIV self-testing is low among men who have sex with men who have not tested for HIV: a study with respondent-driven sampling in Brazil

“…Recently, HIV testing is available in Primary Health Care (PHC) clinics of the Brazilian National Health System (SUS) [16]. However, the bene t of this program is mainly for pregnant women [17], and the coverage among sexual minorities remains low [18,19]. Stigma and discrimination towards MSM in Brazil are high, and could be considered a barrier to HIV testing [20][21][22].…”