Targeted HIV Testing Research Articles

Investigating the Determinants of Mortality before CD4 Count Recovery in a Cohort of Patients Initiated on Antiretroviral Therapy in South Africa Using a Fine and Gray Competing Risks Model.

CD4 count recovery is the main goal for an HIV patient who initiated ART. Early ART initiation in HIV patients can help restore immune function more effectively, even when they have reached an advanced stage. Some patients may respond positively to ART and attain CD4 count recovery. Meanwhile, other patients failing to recover their CD4 count due to non-adherence, treatment resistance and virological failure might lead to HIV-related complications and death. The purpose of this study was to find the determinants of death in patients who failed to recover their CD4 count after initiating antiretroviral therapy. The data used in this study was obtained from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, where 2528 HIV-infected patients with a baseline CD4 count of <200 cells/mm3 were initiated on ART. We used a Fine-Gray sub-distribution hazard and cumulative incidence function to estimate potential confounding factors of death, where CD4 count recovery was a competing event for failure due to death. Patients who had no tuberculosis were 1.33 times at risk of dying before attaining CD4 count recovery [aSHR 1.33; 95% CI (0.96-1.85)] compared to those who had tuberculosis. Rural patients had a higher risk of not recovering and leading to death [aSHR 1.97; 95% CI (1.57-2.47)] than those from urban areas. The patient's tuberculosis status, viral load, regimen, baseline CD4 count, and location were significant contributors to death before CD4 count recovery. Intervention programs targeting HIV testing in rural areas for early ART initiation and promoting treatment adherence are recommended.

Exploring HIV Testing Models for Differentiated Service Delivery in Southern Africa: A Systematic Review

Background: Targeting HIV testing services, as the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended in 2015, fast-tracks the identification of individuals with HIV and addresses the persisting HIV testing gap which might delay epidemic control. Following this recommendation, different models of targeted testing have been implemented, exposing varied interpretations by different countries. This study identifies, aggregates, and synthesizes targeted HIV testing models to develop a concise targeted testing package which can increase the identification of people with HIV. Methods: A systematic literature search in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases identified cross-sectional studies of people (18 years and above) from Southern Africa published between 2016 and 2021. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were applied, and the quality of studies was evaluated using the Joanna Brigs Institute tool (JBI). Data were extracted using a guided matrix to identify the target population, testing models, description, and positivity ratio. Conclusions and methodological suggestions were narratively synthesized. Results: The authors identified 574 studies; 42 full-text articles were screened which yielded 29 studies of moderate quality (71%) meeting the eligibility criteria. Of these, 25 studies (86.2%) were quantitative. From the included studies, similar models were synthesized, and 12 targeted testing models emerged. Prioritized models were Index testing, described in 3 (10.3%) of the studies, scoring the highest positivity ratio of &gt;30%. Six studies (20.7%) described male-targeted models with yields influenced by age, economic status, and educational level, with a positivity ratio of 10% among first-time testers. In contrast, four (13.8%) described Key and Vulnerable Populations (KVP) focused models (positivity ratio of 37.5%) and recency-informed targeted testing (13.1% positivity ratio). Conclusion: This review provides a critical overview and insights into the targeted testing models implemented in Southern Africa. Synthesizing comparable models can meet the various needs of unique populations comprehensively and increase positivity ratio. The recommended models can improve the efficiency of programs in targeting HIV testing services.

Disparities in HIV Testing among Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences

Abstract Background It is estimated that more than 13% of persons 13 years and older living with HIV are unaware of their status. 80 percent of new HIV infections are transmitted by people who are not aware they have HIV or not receiving any HIV care in the US, presenting a major public health concern and stressing the importance of enhanced HIV screening. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have been shown to be risk factors for HIV transmission and studying the relationship of ACEs and the likelihood of HIV screening is thus important to explore. Methods Using combined data (2019-2021) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) dataset, adjusted analyses models were constructed to determine the likelihood of adults receiving HIV testing and their past history of ACEs. Results Overall, compared to individuals reporting no ACES, individuals reporting 1 to 3 ACEs were significantly more likely to be tested for HIV. However, despite higher prevalence of ACEs, significantly higher prevalence of men who have sex with men (MSM) remained unaware of their HIV status. Significant disparities in HIV testing were also observed by socio demographic characteristics. Conclusions Healthy People 2030 aims to increase the proportion of persons who know their HIV status to at least 95% by 2025. Our findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions that target high risk groups, promote testing benefits, and encourage increased testing among individuals with a history of ACEs. Given the importance of testing to HIV prevention outcomes, more research is needed to unpack the relationship between HIV risk and HIV testing for individuals with a history of childhood adversity. Key messages • New trauma-informed training programs for health care providers are needed to facilitate targeted HIV testing. • Ongoing research is critical to unpack the relationship between HIV risk and HIV testing for individuals with a history of childhood adversity.

A Serious Video Game Targeting HIV Testing and Counseling: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PurposeAdolescents are the age group that is least likely to know their HIV status and may unknowingly transmit the virus to others. A randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the impact of the original video game intervention, PlayTest!, on behavioral antecedents for HIV testing and counseling (HTC). MethodsParticipants (N = 287 adolescents) were recruited between 2018 and 2020 and were 48% female, aged 14–18 years (mean age = 15.4 years), and 76% racial minorities. Participants were randomized 1:1 and assigned to either play PlayTest! or a set of control games, ∼one session per week for an hour per session over 4–6 weeks (gameplay) after school. The primary outcome measure was participants' attitudes around HTC at 6 months, with intentions, knowledge, self-efficacy, and behaviors assessed as secondary outcomes. ResultsTwo hundred and ninety-six participants were enrolled/randomized; nine were withdrawn due to incomplete parental consent forms, leaving 287 participants: 145 were randomized to PlayTest! and 142 to the control condition. Mixed between-within subjects ANOVAs assessed the impact of the study conditions on outcomes. Improvements were seen in the PlayTest! group in HTC attitudes (p < .001), intentions (p < .001), knowledge (p < .001), and self-efficacy (p = .002) at all time-points. At 6 months, for those who had access to HTC (N = 134; prior to COVID-19) and for those who did not have access to HTC (N = 261; during COVID-19), there were no differences in self-reported HTC between the two groups (p = .289 and p = .074, respectively). DiscussionPlayTest! impacted important behavioral antecedents related to HTC and has the potential to broadly increase HTC rates in adolescents.

Factors associated with HIV testing among youth in Tanzania based on the 2016-2017 Tanzania HIV Impact Survey (THIS).

HIV testing continues to be a challenge among the young population in Tanzania. As of 2017, only 30% of 15-19-year-olds reported getting tested and receiving their results. This study will examine the demographic and socio-behavioral characteristics associated with HIV testing among adolescents and young adults in Tanzania. Interview data from the 2016-2017 Tanzania HIV Impact Survey (THIS) were analyzed on 10,128 adolescents and young adults 15-24 years of age, representing 10.5 million youth in Tanzania. Weighted logistic regression was used to model the relationship of HIV testing with demographic and socio-behavioral characteristics. Half (50%) of respondents reported ever having been tested for HIV. HIV testing was significantly lower among males compared with females (AOR = 0.5;95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.5-0.6; p<0.001), 15-19 year olds compared with 20-24 year olds (AOR = 0.4;95% CI = 0.4-0.5; p<0.001), no education compared with secondary or post-secondary education (AOR = 0.4;95% CI = 0.3-0.6; p<0.001), rural residents compared with urban residents (AOR = 0.7;95% CI = 0.6-0.9; p<0.001) and those who don't use condoms during sexual intercourse compared with those who do (AOR = 0.6;95% CI = 0.5-0.8; p<0.001). Among HIV-infected youth, younger age group, rural residents, education less than primary, single, high income, and sex workers were significantly associated with never testing for HIV. This study highlights the majority of characteristics affecting HIV testing among young people in Tanzania have not changed over the years, thus it is necessary to re-examine the current approaches to HIV testing. The COVID-19 pandemic will add to this challenge as it collides with the ongoing HIV epidemic and competes for needed medical supplies and health care provider resources. In light of this current situation, intensified and targeted HIV testing programs for at risk young populations in Tanzania should be prioritized.

Factors Associated with Baseline CD4 Cell Counts and Advanced HIV Disease among Male and Female HIV-Positive Patients in Iran: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Despite the recommendation for early diagnosis and rapid initiation of HIV treatment, more than half of patients are in an advanced stage of HIV disease in Iran. This study aimed to investigate the factors related to baseline CD4 cell count and advanced HIV disease (AHD) in Southern Iran. The study comprised all adults between 15 and 87 years of age who were newly diagnosed with HIV in Southern Iran. Linear and logistic regressions were used to identify baseline CD4 cell count predictors and AHD, respectively. A total of 820 (53.9%) HIV-infected individuals over 15 years of age were at the AHD stage. Based on the results of the multiple logistic regression, older age at diagnosis (OR≥40/<30 = 2.68, 95% CI = 1.38–5.19), gender (ORfemale/male = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.44–0.85), HIV/TB coinfection (ORyes/no = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.29–3.02), HIV/HBV coinfection (ORyes/no = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.07–2.38), and hemoglobin (OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.85–0.92) were directly associated with AHD in HIV/AIDS patients. As suggested by a linear regression model, factors including gender (B Female = 44.12, 95% CI:17.86, 70.38), older age (B ≥ 40 = −111.99, 95% CI:−174.70, −49.27), higher education level (B = 35.65, 95% CI:5.34, 65.97), WHO clinical stage (BIV = −254.53, 95% CI−298.82, −210.24), and hemoglobin (B = 5.23, 95% CI:0.25, 10.20) were significantly associated with CD4 count.The prevalence of AHD in patients was high in Iran. Our results suggested that several demographic and clinical factors are significantly associated with the baseline CD4 cell count and AHD. Targeted HIV testing, implementation of screening programs for early detection, and access to care services to assure early ART are recommended to improve the clinical status and quality of life of the patients.

Understanding Health Worker Perspectives on Risk Screening for HIV Testing—A Qualitative Study from Zimbabwe

Background: Zimbabwe recorded a 55% increase in HIV testing from 2011 to 2018 but with decreasing HIV-testing yields from 20% to 6% respectively as we aim to identify the narrowing gap of undiagnosed people living with HIV. As such adoption of screening tools during targeted HIV testing services improves efficiency by identifying individuals who are likely to test positive. Effective utilization of screening tools requires an understanding of health care worker perception and willingness to use the tools. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study among healthcare workers at 8 selected primary healthcare facilities in Zimbabwe. Interviewer-guided, in-depth interviews were conducted with healthcare workers and their immediate supervisors. Thematic analysis was performed following a framework built around the grounded theory model to describe perspectives that influence the utilization of HIV screening tools and suggestions for improved eligibility screening. Results: Behavioural factors facilitating the utilisation of the screening tool included motivation to adhere to standard practice, awareness of screening in targeting testing, and its ability to manage workload through screening out ineligible clients. This was evident across service delivery levels. Barriers included limited healthcare capacity, confidentiality space, multiple screening tools and opaque screening in/out criteria and the potential of clients not responding to screening questions truthfully. Conclusions: Across geographical and service delivery levels, placing screening tools at HIV testing entry points, healthcare worker knowledge on screening in/out criteria emerged as enablers for correct and consistent utilization. Further, standardizing the tools and adopting a decision aid algorithm would improve the accurate utilisation of screening tools.

843. Targeted HIV Testing for Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19

BackgroundSARS-CoV-2 causes a severe respiratory illness known as COVID-19. Treatment options in the early portion of the COVID-19 pandemic included the use of antiretroviral agents i.e. protease inhibitors (PIs) such as lopinavir (LPV) that had been shown to have activity against the main proteases of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro but with very limited clinical data. Prior to the use of PIs, HIV testing would be indicated to ensure that patients who were not previously diagnosed with HIV would start appropriate HIV treatment. In this unique situation, HIV testing would be utilized not based on traditional HIV risk factors.MethodsWe performed a retrospective search from a specific systems database of patients admitted to Yale-New Haven Health System (YNHHS) with a diagnosis of COVID-19 infection. We identified a subset of patients who were HIV tested. Most were done prior to initiating PI treatment. Demographics, comorbidity scores and specific underlying conditions were also tabulated. We performed Kruskal Wallis and Chi-Squared analysis to test for significance between HIV- and HIV+ patients.ResultsThe total no. of patients admitted to the YNHHS with COVID-19 infection between the period from January 6, 2020 to January 6, 2021 was 5776. A cohort 964 (16.7%) patients were screened for HIV. Much of the testing occurred in the early COVID periods (Figure 1) when PIs were considered as part of the treatment algorithm. Sixty-seven (0.07%) patients tested HIV+ with 3 (0.003%) being newly diagnosed (Fig 2). Compared to HIV- patients, HIV+ were more likely to be identified as Black, with higher mean Elixhauser Comorbidity scores and significant associations with conditions such as hypertension, pulmonary disease, complicated diabetes, liver disease, renal failure and depression (Table 1). These co-morbidities have been correlated with higher risk of hospitalization for people living with HIV (PWH).Figure 2. COVID Admission and HIV Status The graph represents HIV testing results over the entire study period.Table 1. Demographics and Comorbidites Represents demographics and comorbidities of HIV- & HIV+ patientsFigure 1. COVID Admissions and HIV Testing COVID admissions over time and the performance of HIV testingConclusionThis is one of the first reports on targeted HIV testing for patients not using identifiable traditional HIV risk factors who were admitted to a large healthcare system for COVID19 infections. The percentage of newly HIV diagnosed patients from this cohort was considered to be < known HIV infection rates for our population. The majority of PWH were already established in care prior to their COVID19 diagnosis.Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

A costing analysis of B-GAP: index-linked HIV testing for children and adolescents in Zimbabwe

BackgroundBy testing children and adolescents of HIV positive caretakers, index-linked HIV testing, a targeted HIV testing strategy, has the ability to identify high risk children and adolescents earlier and more efficiently, compared to blanket testing. We evaluated the incremental cost of integrating index-linked HIV testing via three modalities into HIV services in Zimbabwe.MethodsA mixture of bottom-up and top-down costing was employed to estimate the provider cost per test and per HIV diagnosis for 2–18 year olds, through standard of care testing, and the incremental cost of index-linked HIV testing via three modalities: facility-based testing, home-based testing by a healthcare worker, and testing at home by the caregiver using an oral mucosal transudate test. In addition to interviews, direct observation and study process data, facility registries were abstracted to extract outcome data and resource use. Costs were converted to 2019 constant US$.ResultsThe average cost per standard of care test in urban facilities was US$5.91 and US$7.15 at the rural facility. Incremental cost of an index-linked HIV test was driven by the uptake and number of participants tested. The lowest cost approach in the urban setting was home-based testing (US$6.69) and facility-based testing at the rural clinic (US$5.36). Testing by caregivers was almost always the most expensive option (rural US$62.49, urban US$17.49).ConclusionsThis is the first costing analysis of index-linked HIV testing strategies. Unit costs varied across sites and with uptake. When scaling up, alternative testing solutions that increase efficiency such as index-linked HIV testing of the entire household, as opposed to solely targeting children/adolescents, need to be explored.

Increased targeted HIV testing and reduced undiagnosed HIV infections among gay and bisexual men.

To evaluate the impact of government HIV strategies that aimed to increase HIV testing uptake and frequency among gay and bisexual men (GBM) in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. We analysed HIV testing data from existing passive and sentinel surveillance systems between 2010 and 2018. Six indicators were measured: (1) state-wide total HIV laboratory tests; (2) number of GBM attending publicly-funded clinics; (3) 12-monthly testing uptake; (4) annual testing frequency; (5) HIV testing with a STI diagnosis; and (6) HIV positivity. Mathematical modelling was used to estimate (7) the proportion of men with undiagnosed HIV. Indicators were stratified by Australian vs. overseas-born. Overall, 43,560 GBM attended participating clinics (22,662 Australian-born, 20,834 overseas-born) from 2010-2018. Attendees increased from 5,186 in 2010 to 16,507 in 2018. There were increasing trends (p<0.001 for all) in testing uptake (83.9% to 95.1%); testing with a STI diagnosis (68.7% to 94.0%); annual HIV testing frequency (1.4 to 2.7); and a decreasing trend (p<0.01) in HIV positivity (1.7% to 0.9%).Increases in testing were similar in Australian-born and overseas-born GBM. However, there were decreasing trends in the estimated undiagnosed HIV proportion overall (9.5% to 7.7%) and in Australian-born GBM (7.1% to 2.8%), but an increasing trend in overseas-born GBM (15.3% to 16.9%) (p<0.001 for all).

Barriers to HIV testing in hospital settings within a culturally diverse urban district of Sydney, Australia.

We conducted an anonymous online survey to health workers in Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) in September 2019. Tick-box, Likert scale responses were analysed using Chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests, and free text responses were analysed with thematic analysis. Three percent (n = 420) of WSLHD's estimated 14 000 health workers responded. These included 317 clinicians (171 nurses, 65 doctors, 56 allied health professionals (AHPs), 25 midwives, and 103 health workers in non-clinical roles). Health workers were from a variety of in-patient/out-patient settings. Many health workers (291/420, 69%; 95%CI = 64.9-73.7%) were unaware that HIV testing is offered in their areas; doctors (82%) and midwives (80%) were more aware than nurses (23%) and AHPs (11%) (P < 0.0001). Doctors (Likert score = 3.62; 3.45/5) and midwives (2.84; 2.76) were significantly more comfortable discussing and confidently offering HIV testing than nurses (2.42; 1.81) or AHPs (1.83; 0.91) (P < 0.0001 for both). The top five barriers to HIV testing were (1) procedural knowledge, (2) identification of at-risk patients, (3) HIV knowledge, (4) positive result management, and (5) privacy concerns. Free text responses highlighted perceived stigma, testing/result responsibilities and resource challenges as barriers to HIV testing. Clinicians working in priority settings and with priority populations require more education and support to increase targeted HIV testing.

Development and Validation of a Sociodemographic and Behavioral Characteristics-Based Risk-Score Algorithm for Targeting HIV Testing Among Adults in Kenya

To inform targeted HIV testing, we developed and externally validated a risk-score algorithm that incorporated behavioral characteristics. Outpatient data from five health facilities in western Kenya, comprising 19,458 adults ≥ 15 years tested for HIV from September 2017 to May 2018, were included in univariable and multivariable analyses used for algorithm development. Data for 11,330 adults attending one high-volume facility were used for validation. Using the final algorithm, patients were grouped into four risk-score categories: ≤ 9, 10–15, 16–29 and ≥ 30, with increasing HIV prevalence of 0.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.46–0.75], 1.35% (95% CI 0.85–1.84), 2.65% (95% CI 1.8–3.51), and 15.15% (95% CI 9.03–21.27), respectively. The algorithm’s discrimination performance was modest, with an area under the receiver-operating-curve of 0.69 (95% CI 0.53–0.84). In settings where universal testing is not feasible, a risk-score algorithm can identify sub-populations with higher HIV-risk to be prioritized for HIV testing.

Relationship Between Food Insufficiency and HIV Infection Among Caregivers of Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Tanzania.

BackgroundAlthough Tanzania experiences a general decline in HIV prevalence, some populations such as caregivers of orphans may be at a higher risk than the general population, suggesting that infection pathways still need further exploration. This study examines how food insufficiency relates to HIV infection among caregivers of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in Tanzania.Data and MethodsData are from a community-based, USAID-funded Kizazi Kipya project that aims at increasing the uptake of HIV services, as well as other health and social services by OVC and their caregivers in Tanzania. Caregivers who were enrolled in the project from January to July 2017 in seven regions of Tanzania, and had reported their HIV status to the project, were included in the analysis. While HIV status was the outcome, the main independent variable was food insufficiency which was assessed using the Household Hunger Scale (HHS). Using Stata (version 14.0; StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA), data analysis involved multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression..ResultsOf the 47,617 caregivers analyzed (73.7% females), 61.8% and 4.6% were experiencing moderate and severe hunger, respectively. The overall HIV prevalence among the caregivers was 28.3%. Nevertheless, the prevalence was as high as 34.2% among caregivers in severe hunger households. Multivariate analysis revealed an increasing likelihood of being HIV positive as hunger increased (moderate hunger: OR=1.10, 95%CI: 1.03–1.18; severe hunger: OR=1.51, 95%CI: 1.32–1.74). These observations were adjusted for marital status, age, sex, education, place of residence, family size, disability status, and health insurance.ConclusionFood insufficiency is associated with a higher likelihood of HIV infection among OVC caregivers in Tanzania, suggesting that improving access to adequate food has a potential to reduce HIV risks among them. Furthermore, food insufficiency could be considered an important criterion for targeting HIV testing and treatment services to expand coverage.

Sex-on-premise venues, associated risk behaviors, and attitudes toward venue-based HIV testing among men who have sex with men in Lima, Per\xfa

BackgroundIn Perú, HIV disproportionately affects men who have sex with men (MSM). Despite widespread access to treatment, the high rate of new HIV infections has remained unchanged over the last decade. Low knowledge of HIV status associated with late diagnosis is a key factor underlying the high HIV incidence observed in this setting, creating conditions for efficient onward transmission. Improving access to HIV testing and prevention services for those at highest risk is an important public health priority. Sex-on-premise venues (SOPVs) – saunas, sex clubs, pornographic movie theaters, hourly hotels, and bars/discos with areas where sex is permitted – may be opportune sites for outreach; however, further research on SOPVs and the populations who frequent them is needed to inform such efforts.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional online survey of adult MSM in Lima, Perú to evaluate patterns of SOPV attendance, associated sexual risk behaviors, and attitudes toward SOPV-based interventions. Participants were recruited through outreach to social media networks affiliated with local LGBTQ-aligned community groups. Our primary analytic objective was to estimate the association of HIV-related sexual risk behaviors and SOPV attendance. Additionally, we performed exploratory analyses to describe risk behavior stratified by SOPV category and to examine the relationship between SOPV attendance and the use of online platforms to meet sex partners.ResultsOverall, 389 MSM completed the survey from November 2018 through May 2019, of whom 68% reported attending an SOPV in the last 3 months. SOPV attendance was associated with multiple sexual risk behaviors, including transactional sex, group sex, substance use around the time of sex, and higher number of partners. Over two thirds of SOPV attendees indicated they would accept HIV testing if offered at SOPVs.ConclusionsSOPV attendance was common among MSM in Lima who participated in our survey, and SOPV attendees reported significantly greater engagement in sexual risk behaviors related to HIV transmission. Attitudes toward hypothetical SOPV-based interventions were generally favorable. These findings suggest that outreach at SOPVs may be an effective mechanism for reaching a particularly high-risk sub-population of MSM in Perú to deliver targeted HIV testing and prevention interventions.

Reaching the first 90 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a programme to optimise HIV case finding through intensified index testing

BackgroundTo meet the first aim of the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets, to help end the global HIV epidemic, 90% of people living with HIV should know their status by 2020. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), however, UNAIDS estimates that less than 60% of people living with HIV know their status. To improve targeted HIV testing in Kinshasa and Haut-Katanga provinces of DRC, ICAP at Columbia University, New York, USA, launched an intensive index-testing programme in October, 2017. Here, we describe the programme and report testing yields before and after the intervention. MethodsOur programme increased efforts to elicit information on sexual partners from people who newly test HIV positive or who were receiving antiretroviral therapy (index clients). All index clients were counselled on options for partner notification and tracing, including using peer counsellors who can anonymously notify and test past sexual partners in the community or provide referral to health facilities. We recorded the number of people referred by index clients and describe HIV testing yield (the proportion of people referred by index clients who tested HIV positive) for both male and female clients older than 15 years. We used χ2 tests to compare the testing yield at the start of the intervention to that 10 months after the start of programme implementation. FindingsBetween Oct 1, 2017, and Sept 30, 2018, 2167 male index clients referred 2624 adult female partners (1·2 contacts per index client) of whom 770 (29·3%) tested HIV-positive; 5135 adult female index clients referred 2593 male partners (0·5 contacts per client) of whom 866 (33·4%) were HIV positive. HIV testing yield increased over the course of implementation. At the start of implementation (Oct 1 to Nov 30, 2017, a total of 60 days), 507 adult female partners of index clients were tested for HIV with a testing yield of 12% and 386 adult male partners were tested with a yield of 15%. Between August 1 and Sept 30, 2018 (a total of 60 days), 396 adult female partners were tested with a yield of 38·4% (pre vs post, p<0·0001) and 547 adult male partners were tested with a yield of 41·7% (p<0·0001). InterpretationThese results show the importance of index testing and partner notification in finding people who are living with HIV but unaware of their status. Identification of a client's sexual partners in the HIV testing service and conducting tracking and community-based HIV testing can improve HIV testing yield. FundingCDC and PEPFAR

Demographic and socio-economic determinants of poor HIV-risk perception at first HIV diagnosis: analysis of the HIV Surveillance data, Italy 2010-2016.

HIV infections in Italy has not undergone a substantial decline over recent years. For this reason, we analysed risk-factors and socio-economic indicators of HIV-risk perception in HIV surveillance data. An observational study was conducted and HIV-risk perception was estimated on the basis of reasons for undergoing testing. Ordinal logistic models were applied with three groups of response corresponding to three ordered levels of HIV-risk perception. The study included 18 055 individuals: 27% with low, 40% moderate and 33% with high perception. A low risk perception was estimated in both areas, least deprived and highly deprived [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 1.58, CI: 1.14-2.18 and AOR = 2.33, CI: 1.39-3.90]; for heterosexuals (AOR = 1.96, CI: 1.83-2.11), Injecting Drug Users (IDU) (AOR =1.82, CI: 1.59-2.08), low education (AOR = 1.74. CI: 1.20-2.54), age > 40 years (AOR = 1.59, CI: 1.50-1.69), males (AOR = 1.30, CI: 1.20-1.40). In Italy there is a high percentage of HIV-infected people with poor HIV-risk perception. Poorer HIV-risk perception was associated with both, least and high deprivation, low education, older age, male gender, heterosexual and IDU groups. Our results could be relevant to address targeted HIV testing policies at both local and national levels.

1253. Sex-on-Premise Venue (SOPV) Attendance Among Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) in Lima, Perú: Results From a Cross-Sectional Web-Based Survey

BackgroundIn Perú, where the HIV epidemic is concentrated among men who have sex with men (MSM), incidence has not changed appreciably over the last decade despite the rapid scale-up of free antiretroviral treatment (ART). New strategies for delivering effective HIV testing and prevention services to at-risk populations are greatly needed. Because most adult MSM in Perú live at home with family where it may be difficult to bring new sex partners, sex-on-premise venues (SOPVs)—such as saunas, sex clubs, and hourly hotels—might represent opportune sites at which to offer targeted HIV testing and prevention interventions.MethodsFrom November 26, 2018 through April 15, 2019 we conducted a cross-sectional web-based survey using REDCap to assess the prevalence of SOPV attendance and associated sexual risk behaviors among MSM in Lima, Perú. SOPVs were defined as saunas, sex clubs, adult movie theaters, hotels, or bars/discos known to permit sex. We recruited participants by disseminating an anonymous survey link through local gay social media networks, with no monetary incentive to complete the survey. We asked participants how/where they met any sex partners from the prior 3 months, where they went for sex, and about HIV-associated sexual risk factors, including self-reported HIV status. We used the Pearson chi-squared test and Student’s t-test to assess whether the frequency of sexual risk behaviors differed based on SOPV attendance.ResultsAmong n = 324 cis-gender MSM completing the survey, 16% identified as bisexual. Median age was 30 years, 62% lived at home with family, 50% had a university education or higher, and 29% reported being HIV+. 65% of respondents reported attending an SOPV to meet a partner and/or have sex in the prior 3 months. SOPV attendees were significantly more likely to report transactional sex, group sex, sex under the influence of alcohol, popper use, and have a higher number of sex partners (table).ConclusionSOPV attendance is common among MSM in Lima and associated with higher levels of several sexual behavioral risk factors. In light of this, SOPVs warrant further consideration as potential sites of outreach to offer HIV testing and prevention interventions designed to reach MSM at high risk for HIV infection. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.

Bridging Awareness and Acceptance of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Among Men Who Have Sex With Men and the Need for Targeting Chemsex and HIV Testing: Cross-Sectional Survey

BackgroundPre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is currently an important tool for HIV prevention, especially in communities with higher risk of infection, notably men who have sex with men (MSM). To date, PrEP has remained generally unavailable in many cities around the world. In the planning of strategies for PrEP targeting MSM, community assessment is crucial to understand members’ responses to the new intervention.ObjectiveAwareness and acceptance are 2 different but intricately linked contexts of PrEP. The aim of this study was to identify the determinants of awareness and acceptance of PrEP among MSM and to delineate their interrelationships in Hong Kong where PrEP services have not been developed.MethodsA Web-based questionnaire survey was administered in light of the popularity of the internet as a platform for information and networking in the MSM community. Factors associated with PrEP acceptance and awareness were separately analyzed, and their predictors were subsequently tested by multivariate logistic regression. Associations between acceptance and awareness of PrEP were examined by factor network analysis.ResultsBetween August and September 2016, results from a total of 453 HIV-negative MSM were analyzed. Half (49.7%, 225/453) of the respondents were aware of PrEP, and 78.3% (355/453) would consider using PrEP when it becomes available. Awareness of PrEP was associated with recent (P=.01) and ongoing (P=.04) use of psychotropic drugs for sex (chemsex). MSM who used online forums to seek sex partners had lower awareness (P=.04) than those visiting physical venues for sex networking. MSM who accepted PrEP were more likely users of internet channels for sex networking (P=.049), especially location-based social network apps (P=.04). MSM accepting PrEP were more concerned about their partners’ HIV status (P=.002), history of sexually transmitted infections (P=.01), condom use (P=.02), and HIV testing behavior (P=.02). Multivariate logistic regressions revealed that PrEP awareness was related to one’s networking pattern, whereas its acceptance was associated with inclination to self-protect from HIV. Factor network analysis highlighted the importance of chemsex, which was linked by over half of the edges, whereas the rest were contributed by HIV testing behaviors.ConclusionsIn Hong Kong, the overall awareness among MSM toward PrEP was only moderate but their acceptance was higher. Targeting MSM with chemsex behaviors through Web-based platforms and parallel development of tailored HIV testing services are important when introducing PrEP in the community.

What are mass media interventions made of? Exploring the active content of interventions designed to increase HIV testing in gay men within a systematic review.

PurposeMass media HIV testing interventions are effective in increasing testing, but there has been no examination of their theory or behaviour change technique (BCT) content. Within a heterogeneous body of studies with weak evaluative designs and differing outcomes, we attempted to gain useful knowledge to shape future interventions.MethodsWithin a systematic review, following repeated requests to the authors of included studies for intervention materials, the Theory Coding Scheme, the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), and Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy (BCTT) were used to extract data relating to active intervention content.ResultsOf 19 studies, five reported an explicit theoretical basis to their intervention. TDF analysis highlighted the key domains employed within the majority of interventions: ‘knowledge’, ‘social roles and identities’, and ‘beliefs about consequences’. BCT analysis showed three BCT groupings commonly reported within interventions: ‘Comparison of outcomes’, ‘Natural consequences’, and ‘Shaping knowledge’. Three individual BCTs formed the backbone of most interventions and can be considered ‘standard’ content: ‘Instructions on how to perform behaviour’; ‘Credible source’; and ‘Information about health consequences’.ConclusionsThis is the first study to examine and detail active intervention content in this field. It suggests future interventions should improve knowledge about testing, and use well‐branded and trusted sources that endorse testing. Future interventions should also provide clear information about the health benefits of testing. Our analysis also suggests that to improve levels of effectiveness characterizing the current field, it may be useful to elicit commitment, and action plans, relating to how to implement testing intentions.Statement of contribution What is already known on this subject? Interventions are urgently needed to increase HIV testing among men who have sex with men (MSM) and enable increased access to effective treatment for HIV infection.There is some evidence of the effectiveness of mass media interventions in increasing HIV testing among MSM.Nothing is known about the active components of existing mass media interventions targeting HIV testing. What does this study add? It describes the available literature concerning evaluated mass media interventions to increase HIV testing.It shows few interventions report any explicit theoretical basis although many interventions share common components, including coherently connected causal mechanisms and behaviour change techniques to moderate them.As a minimum, future interventions should improve knowledge about testing; use well‐branded and trusted sources that endorse testing; and provide clear information about the health benefits of testing. Our analysis also tentatively suggests it may be useful to elicit commitment and planning of how to implement testing intentions.

An Early Infant HIV Risk Score for Targeted HIV Testing at Birth.

Early HIV testing is needed for treatment success in young infants, but universal testing is expensive. In this study, we examined the feasibility of early infant HIV risk scores for targeted polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing and early HIV diagnosis. A cross-sectional cohort of newborns exposed to HIV was enrolled and PCR tested within 72 hours. We quantified associations between HIV infection and clinical and laboratory maternal-infant parameters by logistic regression models and determined sensitivity and specificity for derived risk scores. From August 2014 to December 2016, 1759 participants were enrolled. Mothers without antenatal care (5.7% [97 of 1688]) were more likely to deliver newborns who are PCR-positive (P = .0005). A total of 1 in 5 mothers (217 of 990; 21.9%) had HIV viral load (VL) >1000 copies per µL. A total of 432 of 1655 (26.1%) infants were preterm. Low birth weight was documented in 398 of 1598 (24.55%) and 13 of 31 (40.63%) newborns who are PCR-negative and -positive, respectively (P = .0329). A total of 204 of 1689 (12.08%) were growth restricted or small for gestational age, and 6 of 37 (16.22%) were PCR-positive. Symptomatic newborns frequently tested positive (P = .0042). The HIV PCR positivity rate was 2.2% (37 of 1703). Two-risk (combined 3-drug antiretroviral therapy [cART] duration, VL), 3-risk (cART duration, VL, symptomatic newborn), and 4-risk (cART duration, VL, symptomatic, small for gestational age newborn) models for HIV acquisition had predictive probability of 0.28, 0.498, and 0.57, respectively; this could guide targeted birth testing. However, using the 3- and 4-risk scores (probability 0.02 and 0.04), 20% and 24% will be missed compared with universal testing. Targeted newborn testing requires access to maternal VL. Even if risk models include parameters such as maternal cART history, birth weight, weeks' gestation, and symptoms, 1 in 5 newborns who are infected will not be targeted. At present, we support universal PCR testing at birth within the South African prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV context.