Research Article: HIV Testing Uptake Among Ethiopian Rural Men: Evidence from Ethiopian Demography and Health Survey Data
Abstract:
Ethiopia is located in eastern Africa and has the second-largest population in the African continent. HIV testing coverage among men is poor and a key concern in low-income countries, particularly in East Africa. Men have generally lesser access to HIV testing than women since it is not part of their routine care. Unlike for women, HIV testing is routinely offered during antenatal contact and delivery care. The problems are deeply ingrained in rural men; they have limited access to HIV testing services. Their use of HIV tests may have a greater impact on enhancing HIV testing among both men and women. However, the factors and determinants of HIV testing among rural men have received little attention. Therefore, this study aimed to identify factors associated with HIV testing among rural men in Ethiopia using nationally representative Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data. The result of this study revealed that about % of rural men have ever been tested for HIV. The multivariable analysis showed that those who were living in developed regions, engaging in non-agricultural activities, being Muslims, and having comprehensive knowledge about HIV were more likely to be tested for HIV. On the contrary, men who were from better economic status (medium and rich households), literate (attending primary and secondary school), those who had their first sexual experience at the age of or younger, having discriminatory attitudes towards HIV patients, and having no health insurance coverage were less likely to be tested for HIV. Therefore, strengthening awareness-building programmes about HIV and HIV testing services, and providing home-based HIV testing as well as strengthening integration with other healthcare services may increase HIV testing uptake.
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