title: FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THE DECISION TO HAVE HIV ANTIBODY TESTING AMONG THAI MEN WHO HAVE SEX WITH MEN.
abstract: The aim of this study was to assess the factors associated with the deci- sion to have HIV antibody testing among Thai men who have sex with men (MSM) during the previous 12 months. MSM were recruited by systematic sampling from the M-REACH membership registry. Variables collected were demographics, sexual behavior, health behavior, knowledge about HIV/AIDS prevention and attitudes about HIV antibody testing. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire and in-depth interviews. About one third of participants reported having HIV antibody testing during the previous 12 months. Of those, 65% were aged > 24 years. Participants aged > 24 years were significantly more likely to have HIV testing than those aged < 24 years (AOR = 3.04, 95% CI: 1.12-8.28; p < 0.005). Most participants exhibited a good knowledge and attitude (levels regarding HIV antibody testing and AIDS). Those with a good attitude level about HIV were more likely to have been tested than those with a poor attitude level (AOR = 3.19; 95% CI: 1.24-8.22; p < 0.005). A programs that improves attitude and knowledge levels about HIV testing need to be developed for MSM in Thailand to improve HIV antibody testing rates.
authors.forename: Jiratha
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Budkaew
authors.forename: Bandit
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Chumworathayi
mesh_terms: D015492:AIDS Serodiagnosis / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001727:Bisexuality; D015483:HIV Antibodies / Q000276:immunology; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000276:immunology; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D018451:Homosexuality, Male; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013785:Thailand; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D015483:HIV Antibodies