O22 Acceptability of HIV self-testing among men who have sex with men attending a sex on premises venue in brighton: a cross sectional survey. (8th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Amlani, Aliza; Dean, Gillian; Soni, Suneeta; Peralta, Carlos; Llewelyn, Carrie; Vera, Jaime
• Is Part Of: Sexually transmitted infections. Volume 93(2017)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A8
• Page End: A8
• Publication Date: 2017-06-08
• Subjects: Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; HIV infections -- Periodicals; 616.951005
• DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2017-053232.22
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1368-4973

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: Interventions to target and test men who have sex with men (MSM) for HIV are crucial to reduce incidence. Accessing traditional healthcare services can act as a barrier to HIV testing. Testing in outreach settings, such as sex on premises venues (SOPV), may be more successful. This study aimed to determine the acceptability of HIV self-testing in MSM sauna clients. Methods: An anonymous cross sectional, electronic/paper survey was conducted in a male SOPV in Brighton. Results were collated using Survey Monkey. Results: A total of 281 clients responded. 23% were aged 25–34 years, 16% 35–44 years and 37% 45–64 years. 32% reported never testing for HIV; 56% had not tested in the last 12 months; 44% felt they were not at risk of HIV. 93% would consider collecting a HIV self-test at the sauna with 40% wanting to test there and then, and 53% preferring to test at home. Discussion: A significant number of MSM attending this SOPV felt they were not at risk of HIV, and had never tested for HIV or not tested for over 1 year. Despite this, most individuals found testing at the SOPV acceptable, and would consider HIV self-testing if it were available. Innovative methods to enable HIV self-testing in venues frequented by high risk MSM are urgently needed.