Psychosocial factors involved in the very infrequent use of HIV testing among French MSM: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Among men who have sex with men (MSM) in France, the average time between infection and testing is too long, leading to late diagnosis. A better understanding of very infrequent HIV testing (VIT; i.e. have not tested for at least 6 years) could help reach unknowingly long-infected MSM. Thus, we aim to identify psychosocial factors associated with VIT among MSM in France. Methods We conducted a multivariate regression on the data collected via a cross-sectional survey among 315 MSM. Results 11.1% ( n = 35) had VIT. Being over 50, not knowing about the existence of HIV self-testing, having predominantly heterosexual friends, and the level of belief in the effectiveness of treatment as prevention were significantly associated with VIT. Conclusion We call for the development, at the same time, of programs that operate at the individual, institutional and societal levels. In particular, we recommend diversifying the modes of promotion and access to prevention tools, especially for MSM over 50 years old or with little or no connection to the gay community.

Determinants of HIV late presentation among men who have sex with men in Portugal (2014–2019): who’s being left behind?

“…This may be because of patient related factors or health care related factors. As for patient related factors, they do not perceive themselves to be at risk ( 55 , 56 ), they may misinterpret HIV symptoms as age-related ( 56 ), they may feel excluded from HIV testing campaigns ( 56 ) and older MSM may have little or no connection to the gay community ( 57 ). On the other hand, on the health care side, primary care settings are less likely to offer HIV testing to older MSM ( 58 ) and health workers may also misinterpret symptoms assuming those as age-related and pertain from performing an HIV test ( 58 ).…”