Which Chinese men who have sex with men miss out on HIV testing?

Abstract

Targeted, culturally appropriate and innovative interventions to increase HIV testing uptake should be a top priority for HIV prevention among MSM in China.

Social Network and Other Correlates of HIV Testing: Findings from Male Sex Workers and Other MSM in Shanghai, China

“…As with many countries with a low HIV/AIDS prevalence rate among the general population, however, VCT rates for HIV in China are extremely low. Two studies-a 2006 study in Beijing [33] and a 2008 study in Jinan [29]-found that more than 80% of MSM had not tested for HIV in the past 12 months. Certain demographic patterns were also reported: MSM who were older (at least 35 years old), married, bisexual, or unsure about their sexual identity were more likely to forego HIV testing [29].…”

“…Two studies-a 2006 study in Beijing [33] and a 2008 study in Jinan [29]-found that more than 80% of MSM had not tested for HIV in the past 12 months. Certain demographic patterns were also reported: MSM who were older (at least 35 years old), married, bisexual, or unsure about their sexual identity were more likely to forego HIV testing [29]. Other factors associated with not testing include HIV/AIDS knowledge, accessibility of testing sites, and perceived vulnerability.…”

“…It is still unknown whether unrecognized infections among MSM are a driving force behind the high rate of HIV transmission [29]. Since the emergence of the HIV epidemic, client-initiated HIV testing and counseling [also known as voluntary counseling and testing (VCT)] has allowed millions of people globally to ascertain their HIV status and has been shown to be an efficacious form of primary prevention [30,31].…”

Internalized Homophobia and Reduced HIV Testing Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China

“…4 Despite these signs of improvement, however, overall testing rates among MSM in China remain relatively low, with only about half of MSM reporting ever having been tested. 1,4,5 HIV testing serves as a gateway to additional HIV prevention services and to HIV care and treatment if one tests positive. Furthermore, the global AIDS field is shifting toward prevention programming that is contingent on knowing one's HIV status (eg, prevention with positives, test and treat, and chemoprophylaxis).…”

Sexual Behavior and HIV Testing Practices among Men who have Sex with Men in Portugal

“…Likelihood and frequency of testing may be related to demographic characteristics such as sexual orientation, age and ethnicity [14,9,15]; and to fear of positive results, perceived HIV risk, and beliefs about HIV treatment [16,17].…”