HIV testing among MSM in Bogotá, Colombia: the role of structural and individual characteristics

AIDS Educ Prev. 2014 Aug;26(4):328-44. doi: 10.1521/aeap.2014.26.4.328.

Abstract

This study used mixed methods to examine characteristics related to HIV testing among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Bogotá, Colombia. A sample of 890 MSM responded to a computerized quantitative survey. Follow-up qualitative data included 20 in-depth interviews with MSM and 12 key informant interviews. Hierarchical logistic set regression indicated that sequential sets of variables reflecting demographic characteristics, insurance coverage, risk appraisal, and social context each added to the explanation of HIV testing. Follow-up logistic regression showed that individuals who were older, had higher income, paid for their own insurance, had had a sexually transmitted infection, knew more people living with HIV, and had greater social support were more likely to have been tested for HIV at least once. Qualitative findings provided details of personal and structural barriers to testing, as well as inter-relationships among these factors. Recommendations to increase HIV testing among Colombian MSM are offered.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Colombia / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections / diagnosis*
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control
  • HIV Seropositivity
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Homosexuality, Male / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Insurance Coverage / statistics & numerical data
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Mass Screening / methods*
  • Middle Aged
  • Qualitative Research
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sexual Behavior / statistics & numerical data*
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / epidemiology
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / prevention & control
  • Social Support
  • Socioeconomic Factors