High acceptability of rapid HIV self-testing among a diverse sample of MSM from Buenos Aires, Argentina

The objective of this study was to explore the acceptability of rapid HIV self-testing (RHST)among men who have sex with men (MSM).MethodsDuring 2006±2009, a sample of 500 MSM was recruited through Respondent Driven Samplingfor an HIV prevalence/incidence study. Attitude toward RHST was explored amongHIV negative MSM. Data were weighted prior to analyses.ResultsParticipants reported they were likely to buy RHST (74%), test themselves more frequentlythan they currently do (77%), and that the procedure would simplify testing (70%). Furthermore,71% reported they would probably use it alone, 66% would use it with a steady partner,and 56% with a friend/partner. While a majority acknowledged that RHST use woulddeprive them of receiving counseling (61%), 74% declared they would go for help if theytested positive; 57% would use an RHST in order to avoid condoms. Probability of use surpassed70% among gay and non-gay identified MSM as well as those with and without aprevious HIV test. Those likely to buy RHST were older (p = 0.025) and more likely to identifyas gay (p = 0.036). A total of 17% said they would think about killing themselves and 9%would attempt suicide if they tested positive. These MSM were more likely to be younger(p