HIV Testing Among MSM in Bogotá, Colombia: The Role of Structural and Individual Characteristics

Abstract

This study used mixed methods to examine characteristics related to HIV testing among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Bogotá, Colombia. A sample of 890 MSM responded to a computerized quantitative survey. Follow-up qualitative data included 20 in-depth interviews with MSM and 12 key informant interviews. Hierarchical logistic set regression indicated that sequential sets of variables reflecting demographic characteristics, insurance coverage, risk appraisal, and social context each added to the explanation of HIV testing. Follow-up logistic regression showed that individuals who were older, had higher income, paid for their own insurance, had had a sexually transmitted infection, knew more people living with HIV, and had greater social support were more likely to have been tested for HIV at least once. Qualitative findings provided details of personal and structural barriers to testing, as well as interrelationships among these factors. Recommendations to increase HIV testing among Colombian MSM are offered.

HIV Testing in Non-Injection Drug Users: Prevalence and Associated Factors

“…Having a history of STI was associated with the outcome, as has been observed in other studies (25,27,34). The presence of STI increases the risk of contracting HIV (26) and also increases self-perceived risk (25).…”

“…The presence of STI increases the risk of contracting HIV (26) and also increases self-perceived risk (25). In addition, symptoms of some STI prompt engagement with healthcare services and thereby increase the likelihood of the suggestion of a test by a healthcare provider.…”

“…In addition, symptoms of some STI prompt engagement with healthcare services and thereby increase the likelihood of the suggestion of a test by a healthcare provider. A medical diagnosis of STI can also lead health professionals to request an anti-HIV test (25), increasing testing coverage in this subgroup.…”

“…Studies have indicated factors associated with HIV testing, namely sociodemographic characteristics (24)(25)(26), sexual risk behaviors, history of sexually transmitted infections (STI) (25,27), self-perceived HIV risk (28), and knowing people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) and/or someone who had died from AIDS (24,29,30). These determinants must be taken into account when planning healthcare actions and broadening coverage of the testing for those most vulnerable, such as NIDU.…”

Gender Affirmation and Body Modification Among Transgender Persons in Bogotá, Colombia

“…Access to treatment is limited by barriers that include limited financial resources, lack of awareness of available services, and limited availability of endocrinologists (Triana Duarte, 2013). In addition, stigma is evident in medical settings and can result in inadequate care for transgender individuals and other sexual minorities (Poteat, German, & Kerrigan, 2013), including in Colombia (Reisen et al, 2014). Research has indicated that barriers to medical care lead some transgender persons to seek alternative ways of achieving feminization, such as self-administration of hormones and implants (Clements-Nolle, Marx, Guzman, & Katz, 2001; Garofalo, Deleon, Osmer, Doll, & Harper, 2006; Rotondi et al, 2013; Sanchez, Sanchez, & Danoff, 2009; Xavier, Honnold, & Bradford, 2007).…”