High HIV/STI Test Acceptance Through a Behavioral Health Encounter in Latino Immigrants with Substance Use and Mental Health Problems
Julie H Levison, Margarita Alegría, Ye Wang, Sheri L Markle, Larmiar Fuentes, Dianna L Mejia, Andrew Tarbox, Lucía Albarracín García, Lucía Cellerino, Nabila El-Bassel, Julie H Levison, Margarita Alegría, Ye Wang, Sheri L Markle, Larmiar Fuentes, Dianna L Mejia, Andrew Tarbox, Lucía Albarracín García, Lucía Cellerino, Nabila El-Bassel
Abstract
Latino immigrants with substance use and mental health problems are at risk for undiagnosed HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Participants in a randomized control trial were recruited in Boston, USA and Madrid and Barcelona, Spain. Eligibility criteria were Latino self-identification, age 18-70, elevated substance use and mental health symptoms, and not currently in substance or mental health care. A multinomial logistic regression examined predictors of HIV/STI testing decline and lost to follow-up (LTFU) prior to testing compared with acceptance. Of 341 participants, 74% accepted testing, 4% declined, and 22% were LTFU. The odds of LTFU were higher in those with high concern for HIV and those whose main partner had done HIV testing. Age ≥ 35 years, females, higher education, and higher report of discrimination lowered the odds of LTFU. Delivery of HIV/STI testing through community agencies and outreach could overcome barriers to HIV/STI diagnosis in this population of Latinos.Clinical Trial Number: NCT02038855.
Keywords: HIV; Latinos; Mental health; Sexually transmitted infections; Substance use; Testing.
Conflict of interest statement
Conflicts of Interest: All authors have declared that no competing interests exist.
Source: PubMed