Trends in HIV self-testing uptake in Africa: a modeling study of population-based surveys and HIV testing program data
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Background
HIV self-testing (HIVST) can increase access to and uptake of HIV testing among people underserved by other HIV testing approaches. Several countries in Africa, the region most affected by HIV, have scaled-up HIVST. We aimed to estimate 1) country-level and regional trends in HIVST uptake among adults by sex and age and 2) the proportion of distributed HIVST kits that are used and re-testing rates with HIVST.
Methods
Across African countries, we analyzed 1) data from national population-based surveys that included questions on previous HIVST use and 2) the number of HIVST kits distributed from nationally reported program data (2012-2024). We developed a hierarchical Bayesian compartmental model to estimate HIVST rates by triangulating surveys and program data. Random effects were used to pool information across countries.
Results
Data were available from 40 surveys in 27 countries and from 99 country-years of HIVST program data. The proportion of adults aged ≥15 years in Africa who have ever used an HIVST (HIVST uptake) steadily increased, from <1% in 2012 to almost 7% (6.8%; 95% credible interval [95%CrI]: 5.8%–8.2%) in 2024. HIVST uptake was higher in eastern and southern Africa (10.2% in 2024, 95%CrI: 8.5%-12.7%) compared to western and central Africa (2% in 2024; 95%CrI: 1.7%-2.5%) The proportion of people who ever self-tested varied substantially across countries, reaching a maximum in 2024 of 45.4% (95%CrI: 41.8%-51.5%) in Lesotho. Men (7.2% in 2024, 95%CrI: 6.1%–8.8%) were more likely than women to have ever used an HIVST (6.4% in 2024; 95%CrI: 5.4%-7.8%). Compared to younger individuals (15-24 years), those aged 25–34 years had higher rates of self-testing (men: rate ratio[RR]=1.8, 95%CrI: 1.5-2.3; women: RR=1.4, 95%CrI: 1.1-1.6). Individuals who previously self-tested had a 10% higher probability (RR=1.1, 95%CrI: 0.8-1.5) to self-test again. We estimated that 70% (95%CrI: 60%-80%) of all HIVST distributed were used.
Interpretation
HIVST uptake has increased in Africa, with wide between-country variations. Compared to other testing modalities, HIVST is more likely to engage older-to-midlife adults and men who have historically been less likely to be aware of their HIV status. Our results can help understand patterns of use and support countries in optimizing their testing services.
Funding
Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Canada Research Chairs, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation.
