Abstract:
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 are very successful in lowering morbidity and mortality related to the problem.
Objective: To assess acceptance and associated factors of Human immunodeficiency virus self-test using oral fluid among targeted adult clients at public health facilities in Sebeta Sub-city Oromia, Ethiopia, 2023
Methods: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted in Sebeta Sub-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 questioner was used to collect data from clients by interview. The data were entered using Epi-info version 7.0 and analyzed using statistical package for social sciences version 21. Data were summarized using descriptive analyses. Data analysis was done using bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression model. Variables having p-value of <0.25 in bivariable 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 attending public health facilities 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. Therefore, it is important to focus on those factors to improve the acceptance of HIVST in the area
