1. Voluntary HIV testing in Europe.
- Author
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Renzi, Cristina, Zantedeschi, Ester, and Signorelli, Carlo
- Subjects
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DIAGNOSIS of HIV infections , *HETEROSEXUALS , *HIV infections , *DISEASES , *DIAGNOSIS - Abstract
Aims : A study was undertaken to examine patterns of voluntary HIV testing among heterosexuals across Europe. Methods : Cross-sectional surveys on sexual behaviour and HIV were performed including probability samples of the general population ages 18-49 years in Greece ( n =2,000), Italy ( n =2,603), Switzerland ( n =2,777), and Norway ( n =3,704). Results : Prevalence of lifetime voluntary HIV testing among heterosexuals is 10.1%, 15.5%, 17.4%, and 40.9% in Greece, Italy, Norway, and Switzerland, respectively. Between 49.0% and 89.3% of individuals reporting risk behaviours never sought voluntary testing. Multivariate analysis shows that in some countries the likelihood of HIV testing is significantly higher for individuals aged 24-29 and 30-39 years, compared with younger respondents with the same risky behaviour. Among Swiss men and women higher educational level also significantly increases the probability of testing. Conclusions : The prevalence of voluntary HIV testing among heterosexuals with histories of risk is low. The needs of specific groups should be considered to improve HIV prevention and access to care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2004
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