Social network strategies to distribute HIV self‐testing kits: a global systematic review and network meta‐analysis

Hu, Siyue; Jing, Fengshi; Fan, Chengxin; Dai, Yifan; Xie, Yewei; Zhou, Yi; Lv, Hang; He, Xi; Wu, Dan; Tucker, Joseph D.; Tang, Weiming

doi:10.1002/jia2.26342

Cited by 2 publications

References 73 publications

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Social and sexual networks of newly diagnosed people living with HIV: a qualitative social network analysis

Landeghem,

Bulcke,

Rotsaert

et al. 2024

Preprint

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Background A better understanding of HIV transmission dynamics is needed to further reduce the number of new HIV diagnoses in Belgium. As environmental and social context play an important role in explaining HIV acquisition despite the availability of effective HIV prevention, this study investigated the role of social and sexual networks in HIV prevention and risk behavior among people newly diagnosed with HIV, including their perceptions of how they acquired HIV and their ability to disclose their HIV status.Methods This qualitative study used an ego-centric social network approach, through in-depth interviews generating sociograms of social and sexual networks with 20 participants newly diagnosed with HIV.Results Friends, family members, regular sex partners and HIV physicians were placed closest to the ego on the sociogram. Self-identified gay men did not consider their casual sex partners as emotionally close enough to be included in the sociogram, even though these partners were often participants’ primary source of information about sexual health. HIV acquisition among this group was often attributed to increased sexual risk-taking under influence of drugs. Heterosexual and bisexual men who have sex with men (MSM), who had more diverse networks, often did not consider themselves at risk for HIV. Awareness of PrEP was higher among gay-identified MSM than among heterosexuals and heterosexual MSM, partly attributed to community-based prevention efforts. Most participants only disclosed HIV to those closest to them, and the anticipated and perceived lack of social support influenced HIV acceptance. Feelings of internalized HIV stigma and homophobia prevented HIV disclosure, especially among heterosexuals and heterosexual and bisexual MSM.Conclusion This study revealed important differences in the networks of gay-identified MSM, heterosexuals and hetero- and bisexual identified MSM influencing sexual risk taking and prevention behavior. Future prevention initiatives should be inclusive and mainstreamed to ensure to also address those who do not identify as the established transmission groups. Awareness of biomedical prevention should be raised in the general population, providing a base on which more tailored promotion can be built. Involving family physicians and social empowering people living with HIV may help to decrease (anticipated) HIV stigma.

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Social and sexual networks of newly diagnosed people living with HIV: a qualitative social network analysis

Landeghem,

Bulcke,

Rotsaert

et al. 2024

Preprint

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HIV Self-Testing: A Discussion on the Benefits, Limitations, and Implications for Public Health with a Focus on Poland

Kozieł,

Domański,

Szymczak

et al. 2024

Diagnostics

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Background/Objectives: A late HIV diagnosis represents a significant public health concern in Poland, with approximately 50% of patients being identified as late presenters (LPs), resulting in the delayed initiation of treatment. This study assesses the potential of HIV self-testing (HIVST) to enhance early detection, particularly among heterosexual individuals, and evaluates its advantages and limitations within the Polish context. Methods: This study examines the advantages and disadvantages of HIVST by analyzing data from various studies. It focuses on the acceptability, sensitivity, and specificity of HIVST, comparing blood-based and oral fluid-based tests. Moreover, the economic impact and potential public health benefits of HIVST in Poland are evaluated. Results: HIVST is well-accepted, especially among key populations; it can reduce stigma and enhance privacy. The results of studies conducted in Poland indicate that heterosexuals are more inclined to use self-testing methods than traditional diagnostic procedures. On the other hand, HIVST has the potential for false-negative results due to the serological window and the possibility of missed diagnoses of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Moreover, the cost of HIVST remains a significant barrier, as it is not publicly funded in Poland. Conclusions: Despite its limitations, HIVST offers a number of significant benefits, including increased rates of testing and earlier detection, which could prove vital in reducing the transmission of HIV in Poland. This study proposes that increased funding, the integration of HIVST into public health strategies, and further research to enhance its implementation, alongside education and support for its effective use, should be prioritized.

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Social network strategies to distribute HIV self‐testing kits: a global systematic review and network meta‐analysis

Cited by 2 publications

References 73 publications

Social and sexual networks of newly diagnosed people living with HIV: a qualitative social network analysis

Social and sexual networks of newly diagnosed people living with HIV: a qualitative social network analysis

HIV Self-Testing: A Discussion on the Benefits, Limitations, and Implications for Public Health with a Focus on Poland

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