HIV testing among individuals with a severe mental illness: review, suggestions for research, and clinical implications

Abstract

Background-The prevalence of HIV is elevated among individuals with a severe mental illness (SMI). Because of the benefits of HIV testing, it is important for individuals with SMI to have routine access to testing.

Factors associated with unprotected sexual practice among men and women with mental illnesses in Brazil

“…Not having been tested for HIV was a factor associated with recent unprotected sex among women only. Although our results differ from other studies 24,25 , this result is important and can indicate low information and motivation of women with mental disorders to protect themselves and seek health care, including HIV testing. In addition, it also indicates that direct approach and attention for HIV prevention and care in these mental health services in Brazil may be lacking.…”

HIV Testing Among Adults with Mental Illness in the United States

“…Implementing routine HIV testing in mental health settings (where screening is low due to: limited availability of on-site testing, clinician discomfort providing risk reduction counseling and administering HIV tests, and provider concerns that HIV testing may detract from the delivery of mental health care) and targeting outreach and testing campaigns towards those with mental illness may help improve testing rates in this at-risk population. [37][38][39][40] In addition, mentally ill persons who use illicit drugs should be screened for HIV when initiating treatment for substance abuse. 41 Lastly, linkage to and retention in HIV care are necessary, given poorer HIV outcomes for persons with versus those without psychiatric disorders.…”

Loss to Follow-Up among a Group of Patients with HIV and Severe Mental Illness in South Africa

“…One group which has been disproportionately affected is individuals with mental illness [10]. An estimated 26.5% of individuals with mental illness in South Africa have HIV [11].…”