P17.07 Sexual risk behaviour predicts more frequent use of hiv self-testing: early findings from the forth trial

Abstract

Background Most HIV diagnoses in Australia are among gay and bisexual men (GBM), yet less than a quarter of higher-risk GBM are testing at the recommended frequency (3-6 monthly). In the context of a randomised trial of HIV self-testing (FORTH), we examined the predictors of more frequent use of HIV self-testing among higher-risk GBM. Methods Participants in FORTH trial included higher-risk GBM (>5 sexual partners or condomless anal intercourse in the past 3 months). The trial is being conducted over 12 months, and men in the intervention arm receive 4 self-tests (OraSure's OraQuick home test) at baseline and additional self-tests on request. Using data from the baseline and 6 month surveys, we used logistic regression to examine predictors of using >2 self-tests over 6 months among participants in the intervention arm. Results Of the GBM (n = 154) in the intervention arm, 59% reported in the baseline survey they had condomless anal intercourse with casual partners (CLAIC) in the past 6 months and 56% had a HIV test every six months. Men who reported CLAIC in the past 6 months were more likely to use >2 HIV self-tests in the first 6 months of the trial (odds ratio:2.8,95% CI: 1.2-6.7). No other baseline survey factors were associated with >2 self-tests, including; demographics, testing frequency, likelihood to self-test in the future, and reported testing barriers (the process of getting tested is too much hassle, I don't like having to return for results, I don't want to go to a clinic/doctor to get tested). Conclusion These findings indicate men who report sexual risk behaviour are more likely to increase their testing frequency through self-tests, which is a key HIV prevention goal. However there is also a need to ensure the longer window period of the OraQuick self-test is understood to avoid infections being missed.