Assessment of acceptance and associated factors of HIV self-test using oral fluid among targeted adult clients at public health facilities in Sheger City, Ethiopia, 2023

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus is a major public health problem worldwide. Human immunodeficiency virus self-testing using oral fluid is the best way of receiving preventive and treatment services, which help to lower morbidity and mortality related to the problem. Purpose: To assess acceptance and associated factors of Human immunodeficiency virus self-test using oral fluid among targeted adult clients at public health facilities in Sheger City, Ethiopia, 2023 Patients and Methods: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted in Sebeta Sub-city of Sheger City governmental health facilities, from July 1 to 30, 2023 . A total of 317 adults aged ≥18 years were included in the study by systematic random sampling method. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from clients by interview. Data analysis was done using bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression model. Variables having p-value of <0.25 in bivariate analysis were candidate for multivariable analysis. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was computed to identify the presence and strength of association. Results: A total of 314 study participants were involved making a response rate of 99.1%. The overall acceptance of HIVST among targeted adult clients attending public health facilities in the study area was 169 (53.8%) (95%CI: 48.1%, 59.2%). Being married (AOR=3.97; 95%CI: 1.74, 9.05), having fear of being stigmatized (AOR=3.75; 95%CI: 1.64, 8.61), obtaining counseling during HIV test (AOR=3.33; 95%CI: 1.28, 8.64) and having doubts about confidentiality information related to HIV test (AOR=2.49; 95%CI: 1.13, 5.46) were factors that were significantly associated with acceptance of HIVST using oral fluid. Conclusion: The magnitude of acceptance of HIVST among targeted adult clients in the study area was within range of the finding of studies on acceptance of HIVST on the world. Being married, having fear of being stigmatized, obtaining counseling during HIV test and having doubt about confidentiality related to HIV test were factors that were significantly associated with acceptance of HIVST using oral fluid.