The Impact of Providing Free HIV Self-testing on Sexual Risk Behaviors Among Men who have Sex with Men in Hunan, China: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Ci Zhang, Lloyd A. Goldsamt, Shimin Zheng, Han Zhu Qian, Honghong Wang, Qing Li, Xianhong Li, Deborah Koniak-Griffin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

HIV self-testing (HIVST) increases testing frequency among men who have sex with men (MSM). However, its impact on sexual risk behaviors is unclear. In a randomized controlled trial conducted in Hunan Province, China, HIV-negative MSM were randomized to receive one of two interventions for one year: (1) facility-based HIV testing, or (2) facility-based HIV testing augmented with free HIVST. From April to June 2018, 230 MSM were enrolled. They self-reported sexual behaviors every 3 months for 12 months. Among 216 MSM with follow-ups (intervention: 110; control: 106), adjusting for potential confounders in Generalized Estimating Equation models, there were no statistically significant differences in consistent condom use with male partners (regular/casual) or female partners, nor on number of male or female sexual partners. Provision of free HIVST kits does not increase risky sex and should be included in comprehensive HIV prevention packages, particularly for sexual minority men in China.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)708-718
Number of pages11
JournalAIDS and Behavior
Volume27
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2023

Keywords

  • Consistent condom use
  • HIV self-testing
  • Men who have sex with men
  • Sexual risk behaviors

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Psychology
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
  • Infectious Diseases

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