ABSTRACT
This study examined factors associated with the intention to take an HIV test among men who have sex with men (MSM) in South Korea. An internet website-based survey was conducted among users of the only and largest online MSM website between 20 July 2016, and 20 August 2016. A total of 2915 participants completed the survey and answered questions related to sociodemographic information, health behaviors, sexual behaviors, and HIV testing history. Of these, 2587 (88.7%) participants responded as having an intention to take an HIV test. A multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed the following as having reduced the intention to undergo HIV testing: very good subjective health status and no sexual interactions during the last 6 months (Adjusted odds ratios [AOR] 0.45 and 0.54, respectively). In contrast, increased intention to take an HIV test was associated with being 20–29 years old, 30–39 years old, not paying or receiving money for sex, having a history of HIV testing, and taking an HIV test once per 12 months (AOR 2.64, 2.13, 1.54, 1.81, and 2.17, respectively). In conclusion, HIV testing among MSM in this study was associated with age, subjective health status, sex(es) of one’s sexual partner(s) during the last 6 months, sexual risk behaviors, HIV testing history, and undergoing regular HIV testing.
Acknowledgements
We are grateful to the participants of the survey and the staff of IVANCITY for their assistance.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
ORCID
Hye Jin Yang http://orcid.org/0000-0002-5238-7820
Ji Hwan Bang http://orcid.org/0000-0002-7628-1182
Jungmee Kim http://orcid.org/0000-0002-1955-843X
Young Hwa Lee http://orcid.org/0000-0003-2073-993X
YooJin Park http://orcid.org/0000-0002-1602-8222
In Sil Huh http://orcid.org/0000-0001-7939-8565
Cho Ryok Kang http://orcid.org/0000-0002-9212-8292
Sung-II Cho http://orcid.org/0000-0003-4085-1494
Myoung-don Oh http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2344-7695
Eung Soo Hwang http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9562-4577
Jong-Koo Lee http://orcid.org/0000-0003-4833-1178