Acceptability of HIV Testing Among Jail Inmates When Combined With a Blood Test for Tuberculosis. (April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nijhawan, Ank E.; Iroh, Princess A.; Porsa, Esmaeil
• Is Part Of: Journal of correctional health care. Volume 24:Number 2(2018)
• Page Start: 120
• Page End: 126
• Publication Date: 2018-04
• Subjects: HIV testing -- incarceration -- combined -- tuberculosis -- acceptability; Prisoners -- Health and hygiene -- United States -- Periodicals; Prisoners -- Medical care -- United States -- Periodicals; 365.667
• DOI: 10.1177/1078345818762107
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1078-3458

Abstract

Incarcerated individuals are at high risk of HIV and tuberculosis (TB), though combined screening in the criminal justice system is limited. Newer blood tests for TB provide a unique opportunity to combine HIV and TB testing in corrections. Entering jail inmates were offered routine opt-out HIV testing along with TB screening, both via blood draw. Of the 529 individuals enrolled, 524 (99%) agreed to HIV testing. Testing identified 13 (2.5%) previously diagnosed HIV infections and one new positive. One quarter (138, 26%) of participants had never been tested for HIV and were more likely to be young, Hispanic, born outside of the United States, and incarcerated for the first time. Combined HIV/TB testing had high acceptability among individuals entering jail.