Uptake of HIV Testing Services among Refugee Men in Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement Camp, Mid-western Uganda

Aims: HIV testing is a critical checkpoint to late diagnosis and delayed treatment. However, utilization of HIV testing services has not yet reached the desired target, especially for men. This study aimed to determine the level of uptake of HIV testing services and the associated factors among refugee men in the Kiryandongo Refuge Settlement Camp.

Study Design: Cross-sectional by mixed methods.

Methodology: The study was conducted by mixed methods. A total of 422 men >18 years were selected using systematic random sampling. Interview administered semi-structured - questionnaires and informant interview guides were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data respectively.

Results: The level of uptake of HIV testing services was 32%. Key factors negatively associated with the testing included social-cultural status (P=0.006, AOR=3.80) disclosure of positive results and awareness (P=0.002, AOR=0.14 and P=0.000, AOD=0.08) respectively, unemployment (P=0.015, AOR=0.17), religion (P=0.043, AOD=0.37) and multiple sexual partners (P=0.033, AOR=0.23).

Conclusion: The level of uptake of HIV testing services among refugee men in the Kiryandongo refugee settlement camp is significantly lower than the national mark. Targeted testing strategies and sensitization are critical to address the negatively associated factors and inform public health policies.