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Effectiveness of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Index Testing: A Global Scoping Review
Abhiruchi Galhotra1, Sanjana Agrawal2, Aditi Chandrakar1
1Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India.
International Journal of MCH and AIDS
|November 11, 2025
Summary
Index case testing effectively identifies undiagnosed HIV infections in partners and children of people living with HIV. This approach shows high acceptance and feasibility, crucial for improving HIV diagnosis and care globally.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- India has over 2.5 million people living with HIV.
- WHO recommends HIV self-screening and partner notification.
- Index testing identifies partners and children of HIV-positive individuals for diagnosis and care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effectiveness of index case testing in improving HIV diagnosis and care uptake.
- To understand the global application and success of index testing strategies.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review of studies published between 2010 and 2024.
- Included 10 studies focusing on HIV index case testing effectiveness.
- No studies specific to the Indian context were identified.
Main Results:
- Index testing identified previously undiagnosed HIV in sexual partners (up to 51%) and children (4.0-5.8%).
- Studies were conducted in various African countries and Ukraine.
- High acceptance rates and feasibility of index testing were demonstrated across diverse populations.
Conclusions:
- HIV index case testing is a valuable strategy for reaching at-risk populations and enhancing HIV care.
- Further research on cost-effectiveness and implementation optimization is recommended.
- Index testing significantly contributes to HIV case finding and linkage to care.
