Self-testing for HIV could increase diagnoses in the trans community

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sexual Health
• Transgender Health

Background:

• HIV testing remains crucial for transgender populations, who face higher risks.
• Previous research indicates barriers to traditional HIV testing services for transgender individuals.
• Self-testing offers a potentially more accessible and acceptable HIV testing modality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact and acceptability of HIV self-testing (HIVST) among transgender men and women.
• To evaluate HIVST as a tool for increasing HIV diagnoses and linkage to care within this population.
• To analyze data from a subgroup of the SELPHI randomised controlled trial and process evaluation.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from a randomised controlled trial with qualitative process evaluation.
• Subgroup analysis focused specifically on transgender participants (trans men and trans women).
• Data collected in England and Wales.

Main Results:

• HIV self-testing significantly increased HIV diagnoses among transgender individuals compared to standard care.
• High acceptability and satisfaction reported by trans men and trans women using HIVST kits.
• Successful linkage to HIV care was observed for individuals diagnosed through self-testing.

Conclusions:

• HIV self-testing is an impactful and acceptable method for increasing HIV testing uptake and diagnoses in transgender populations.
• Self-testing can help overcome barriers to traditional services and improve linkage to care for transgender individuals.
• Policy and practice should consider integrating HIVST into routine sexual health services for transgender communities.