HIV testing among immigrant men who have sex with men in Brazil

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate the prevalence of non‐testing for HIV among immigrant men who have sex with men (MSM) residing in Brazil and identify associated factors.DesignAn analytical web‐survey study was conducted across all Brazilian states from January 2020 to May 2021.SampleThe study included 804 MSM immigrants from Portuguese‐speaking countries.MeasurementsOdds ratio (OR) and adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) were utilized to determine the strength of the association between non‐HIV testing and associated factors.ResultsAmong the participants, 63.7% had never undergone HIV testing. Multivariate analysis revealed several factors associated with a higher likelihood of not being tested for HIV: having a steady/monogamus partner (AOR: 1.5; 95%CI: 1.1‐2.3) or both casual and steady partners (AOR: 1.8; 95%CI: 1.2‐3.4), not engaging in bareback sex (AOR: 1.91; 95%CI: 3‐3.5), being an immigrant in the country for less than 12 months (AOR: 3.7; 95%CI: 2.5‐9.7), and having a preference for insertive (AOR: 1.5; 95%CI: 1.1‐2.5) or receptive (AOR: 2.9; 95%CI: 1.4‐5.7) roles. However, practicing chemsex was found to be a protective factor for testing (AOR: 4).ConclusionTo enhance HIV prevention strategies, it is crucial to implement specific measures that ensure accessibility, confidentiality, and a reduction in stigma associated with HIV testing.