Attitudes and Acceptability on HIV Self-testing Among Key Populations: A Literature Review

TLDR: Most studies identified were from high-income countries and among men who have sex with men (MSM) who found HIVST to be acceptable, and MSM were interested in HIVST because of its convenient and private nature, but had concerns about the lack of counseling, possible user error and accuracy.

Abstract: HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a potential strategy to overcome disparities in access to and uptake of HIV testing, particularly among key populations (KP). A literature review was conducted on the acceptability, values and preferences among KP. Data was analyzed by country income World Bank classification, type of specimen collection, level of support offered and other qualitative aspects. Most studies identified were from high-income countries and among men who have sex with men (MSM) who found HIVST to be acceptable. In general, MSM were interested in HIVST because of its convenient and private nature. However, they had concerns about the lack of counseling, possible user error and accuracy. Data on the values and preferences of other KP groups regarding HIVST is limited. This should be a research priority, as HIVST is likely to become more widely available, including in resource-limited settings.