Abstract : 

In view of the recent initiation of HIV Self-Testing in Bangladesh, it is important to identify populations that are less conscious of the availability of self-testing; therefore, they can be given priority in future interventions. This study aimed to understand the knowledge, attitude, behavior, and practices of young MSM and TG regarding HIV infection and the proposed opportunity of HIV self-testing (HIV ST) including risk perceptions and acceptance to gain a user base for HIVST among young and adolescent MSM and, hence supports maximizing HTS coverage.

Description: A convenience sample of 724 participants (529 MSM, 195 TG) was interviewed aged 15-24 using a structured questionnaire in 5 Youth Field Centres in Bangladesh; among them 652 adolescent and youth were reached through telephone and 72 participated in 10 focus group discussions (FGDs).
Lessons learned: HIV self-test by oral fluid was found to be well-accepted by the local MSM and TG community as reflected by the satisfaction rate. Respondents also confirmed to use comfortable testing procedures without pain and receiving quick results with confidentiality and with directly assisted HIV ST services in future. Recommendations for future interventions included: development of a comprehensive SOP for HTS inclusive of HIV ST in the country; ensure free cost or a reasonable price of the kit; design interventions to link people with HIV positive screening results to the appropriate health services for confirmatory testing and link with ART center if needed; ensure confidentiality; engage with a network of KP-friendly organizations and providers when distributing HIVST kits.