Effectiveness of Community-based Distribution Methods of HIV Self-Test Kits among Female Sex Workers (FSWs) in Lagos State, Nigeria
Abstract:
Community-based distribution method of HIV self–test kits is one of the distribution methods for HIV self -test uptake among Female Sex Workers (FSWs) in Nigeria. Yet it seems that understanding of its effectiveness and uptake has been on the margins among key populations (KPs) such as FSWs. To fill this gap, a cross-sectional comparative design with 375 FSWs, comprising 143 urban and 232 semi-urban residents in Lagos State, was measured and compared between the two groups to ascertain the effectiveness of the community-based distribution method of HV Self Testing (HIVST) uptake and how it could promote and sustain a long-term health care system in the context of HIVST uptake. Data for this study were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS. The key finding showed that overall, 86% of both urban and semi-urban participants affirmed the effectiveness of community-based distribution methods of HIVST. The main reasons included non-stigmatization, lack of discrimination, regard for FSWs, confidentiality, and cost-effective uptake. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between community-based and other distribution models (p < 0.05). However, minimal awareness of community-based distribution was identified. In the alternative, the study shows that intervention to redress this challenge can promote and sustain the effectiveness of community-based HIVST distribution, contribute valuable information to the field of HIV prevention and care, offer insights that can inform targeted approaches to enhance HIV testing uptake, meet the health needs of FSWs living with HIV, thereby mitigating the spread of the disease and contributing to improved health conditions.References:
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