The rate of HIV testing is increasing among men who have sex with men in China

Abstract

Objectives: HIV infection is spreading relatively quickly among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. Accurate knowledge of HIV status is of high importance for public health prevention.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review of literature published in either English or Chinese to collate available HIV testing data among MSM in China. Linear regression and Spearman's rank correlation were used to study factors associated with HIV testing rates.

Results: Fifty-five eligible articles were identified in this review. The proportion of MSM who had ever been tested for HIV has significantly increased, from 10.8% in 2002 to 51.2% in 2009. In comparison, reported rates of HIV testing in the past 12 months have also significantly increased, from 11.0% in 2003 to 43.7% in 2009.

Conclusions: Chinese MSM have relatively low HIV testing rates compared with MSM in other settings. It is important to continue to promote HIV testing among MSM in China.