Level of use of HIV self-tests and associated factors among men who have sex with men in France, 2023

Introduction – Available in pharmacies since 2016, HIV self-tests (ATVIH) sell approximately 65,000 units per year in France. The range of products has expanded and prices have fallen over the years. Free distribution initiatives led by organizations in community spaces, as well as online, have been established. After seven years of availability and the widespread adoption of self-testing kits during the COVID-19 pandemic, the profile of users of this screening tool remains poorly understood. The objective of this article is to describe the characteristics of men who have sex with men (MSM) who have used an HIV self-test kit in the past year and the factors associated with this use. Method – Data were drawn from the 2023 Sex Survey (Eras), a cross-sectional, anonymous, self-administered, and voluntary online survey. Results – Use of an HIV self-test kit in the past 12 months was reported by 14.3% of men, and 4.0% used one for their most recent test. Factors associated with HIV self-test kit use include: an educational level equivalent to a high school diploma or lower, experiencing financial difficulties, regular use of gay dating apps, not being under regular medical care, and taking multiple HIV tests per year. Discussion – Access to HIV self-tests is an integral part of access to the healthcare system, and their availability should be viewed as a component of public health initiatives aimed at diversifying access to testing in order to reduce the number of people unaware of their HIV status.

Author(s): Rahib Delphine, Chameau Zoé, Velter Annie

Publishing year: 2024

Pages: 510-517

Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin, 2024, n° 23-24, p. 510-517

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