Study Compares Interventions for Identifying Undiagnosed HIV
New research from New York University found peer-referral methods to be the most effective at increasing HIV testing in high-risk heterosexual populations. Heterosexuals account for about 24% of newly reported HIV diagnosis, but are the least likely to be tested due to various barriers. Researchers sought to determine the best method for testing HIV in high risk individuals to decrease the number of people living with undiagnosed HIV.
The study, led by Dr. Marya Gwadz, with the Center for Drug Use and HIV Research at New York University, focused on African-American/black and Hispanic populations living in areas in New York City with a high prevalence of HIV and high poverty rates, but with low HIV diagnosis and testing. The populations selected faced the most barriers for diagnosing HIV, such as low socio-economic status and potential stigma if diagnosed.
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Researchers used 3 approaches to diagnosis HIV in high-risk heterosexuals: respondent-driven sampling and confidential HIV testing in 2 sessions, respondent-driven and anonymous HIV testing in 1 session, and venue-based sample and HIV testing in 1 session.
Overall, their results showed that respondent-driven sampling and HIV testing in one session reached more high risk and undiagnosed individuals than any other method. In addition, the respondent-driven sampling resulted in more rates of newly diagnosed HIV than any other method.
The study concluded that the use of peer-referral to increase HIV testing and diagnosis in low-income and high risk populations will increase the likelihood of testing. The researchers believe peer-referrals will be instrumental in efforts to eliminate HIV transmission.
—Melissa Weiss
Reference:
Gwadz M, Cleland CM, Perlman DC, et al. Public health benefit of peer-referral strategies for detecting undiagnosed HIV infection among high risk heterosexuals in New York City [published online November 29, 2016]. Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. doi: 10.1097/QAI.0000000000001257.