Feasibility of using GrindrTM to distribute HIV self-test kits to men who have sex with men in Los Angeles, California

Abstract

Abstract. Background: Our study aimed to determine if GrindrÔ is an effective means of reaching high-risk men who have sex with men (MSM) for HIV testing. In Los Angeles (LA), Black and Latino MSM have the highest rate of HIV infection, and Black MSM in LA are four-fold more likely than white MSM to not know they are infected with HIV. Those MSM are also major users of social networking apps. GrindrÔ was used to provide access to free HIV selftesting. Methods: Free HIV self-test kits were advertised on GrindrÔ from 13 October to 11 November 2014, consisting of 300 000 banner ads and three broadcast messages targeting a high-risk HIV population in LA. Eligible participants, Black or Latino, MSM and who were aged 18 years of age, were invited to take a survey 2 weeks after test delivery. Results: The website received 4389 unique visitors and 333 test requests, of which 247 (74%) were requests for mailed tests, 58 (17%) were for vouchers and 28 (8%) were for vending machines. Of the 125 participants, 74% reported at least one episode of condomless anal intercourse in the past 3 months, 29% last tested for HIV over 1 year ago and 9% had never been tested. Conclusions: It was feasible to use GrindrÔ to distribute HIV self-test kits. Users are willing to provide personal information in exchange for a free self-test and found self-tests acceptable and easy to use. HIV selftesting promotion through apps has a high potential to reach untested high-risk populations.

Using technology to support HIV self-testing among MSM

“…Two weeks after study staff confirmed test acquisition, participants were invited to complete a follow-up online survey on the HST experience. The number of test requests were similar in both studies (n=334) [24*], (n=333) [25*]; a majority of participants requested mailed tests (67%) [24*], (74%) [25*]. Based on data from participants completing baseline surveys (n=122) [24*], (n=125) [25*], the studies enrolled samples of primarily Latino MSM, many of whom reported recent sexual risk and suboptimal testing behaviors (e.g., never tested, last test >1 year ago).…”

“…Two of these studies were conducted by members of the same research team and used Grindr to advertise free HST kits in two high HIV incidence areas in Los Angeles County, US [24*, 25*]. Individuals who clicked on the ads were directed to the study webpage where they selected their preference for receiving a rapid oral fluid test.…”

“…In the first study [24*], options included mail via US Postal Service, an electronic pharmacy voucher or a PIN for a vending machine located outside of the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center. In the second study [25*], options included a code for ordering and shipping through a pharmacy website, as well as pharmacy vouchers and a vending machine PIN. After selecting their preference for receiving the HST kit, individuals were invited to participate in an online study; eligibility criteria included age ≥ 18 and self-identification as MSM and Black/African American or Hispanic/Latino.…”

Meeting Sexual Partners Through Internet Sites and Smartphone Apps in Australia: National Representative Study (Preprint)

“…There were no statistical differences by sex. Differences were observed for sexual identity with gay, lesbian and bisexual respondents being more likely to also report having sex with someone they met online compared to heterosexual respondents (62.4% vs. 30 Among respondents who had had sex with someone met online, 62.9% were male and 37.1% were female. The majority identified as heterosexual (77.8%).…”

New media challenges and opportunities

“…In a recent study, free HIV self-test kits were advertised on Grindr using banner ads and broadcast messages targeting a high-risk HIV population in Los Angeles. During the 4-week study, there were 333 test requests, of which 247 (74%) were requests for mailed tests, 58 (17%) were for vouchers redeemable at Walgreens and 28 (8%) were for vending machines 8. In another example, Rhodes et al 9 tested an intervention designed to increase HIV testing among MSM and transgender persons within four geographically focused social media sites 9.…”