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Prevalence and Determinants of Recent HIV Testing among older persons in rural Uganda: A Cross-Sectional Study

Stephen Ojiambo Wandera, Makerere University
Betty Kwagala, Makerere University
Fred Maniragaba, Makerere University

Background: The study aimed to investigate the determinants of recent HIV testing among older persons in selected rural districts in Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 649 older men and women age 50 years and older, from central (Masaka district) and western (Hoima district) Uganda was conducted. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to examine the association between recent HIV testing and selected explanatory variables. Results: The prevalence of lifetime HIV testing was 82% and recent (last 12 months) HIV testing was 53%. HIV testing in the last 12 months was associated with age (OR=0.50; 95% CI: 0.31-0.79), self-reported sexually transmitted infections (OR=1.59; 95% CI: 1.00-2.30), male circumcision (OR=1.71; 95% CI: 1.0-2.93), and sexual activity in the last 12 months (OR=2.89; 95% CI: 1.83-4.57). Conclusion: Recent HIV testing among older persons was associated with younger age, self-reported STIs, male circumcision, and sexual activity among older persons in rural Uganda. HIV testing interventions need to target older persons who are 70 years and older, who were less likely to test.

Keywords: Older adults, Population ageing

See extended abstract.

  Presented in Session P12.