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

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of non-testing for HIV among immigrant men who have sex with men (MSM) residing in Brazil and identify associated factors.

Design: An analytical web-survey study was conducted across all Brazilian states from January 2020 to May 2021.

Sample: The study included 804 MSM immigrants from Portuguese-speaking countries.

Measurements: Odds ratio (OR) and adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) were utilized to determine the strength of the association between non-HIV testing and associated factors.

Results: Among 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).

Conclusion: To enhance HIV prevention strategies, it is crucial to implement specific measures that ensure accessibility, confidentiality, and a reduction in stigma associated with HIV testing.

Keywords: HIV; aids; chemsex; immigrants; men who have sex with men; sexual behavior.