In this publication, we report the results of our eTest pilot study. All participants who were mailed home-based HIV tests reported testing for HIV at least once over the course of the 7 month study, compared to 72% of those reminded it might be time to get tested at a clinic. Those who were called immediately following the completion of their home-based test were more likely to receive risk reduction counseling, prevention supplies (e.g., condoms and lube), and PrEP referrals during the study period. No effects were seen regarding PrEP uptake or STI testing. Stay tuned for results from our larger eTest study, beginning recruitment in 2018!
Many gay/bi men do not test as often as recommended.
Staying true to our lab, we’ve gathered data on HIV testing habits among men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Northeastern Unites States. We found that racial/ethnic minority MSM, those with a college degree and those who engaged in more recent HIV-risky behavior had higher odds of having tested in the last 12 months. Conversely, the odds of having tested in the last 12 months were lower among those who reported drinking alcohol heavily, when compared with more moderate drinkers, highlighting yet another potential impact of alcohol on HIV outcomes.