Prevalence of HIV Self-Testing Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: Evidence Synthesis by Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

HIV self-testing (HIVST) plays a significant role in addressing the health care needs of high-risk populations, particularly men who have sex with men (MSM). The present systematic review and meta-analysis provide an assessment of the prevalence of HIVST among MSM within the last 5 years. Seven databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Scopus, EMBASE, ProQuest, and EBSCOhost) were searched systematically from January 1, 2018 to March 10, 2023. After an independent search and quality assessment, the pooled prevalence was calculated using a random-effects model. Eight relevant studies were finally included in our study from an initial pool of 288 articles identified through a systematic search. Our meta-analysis revealed that the pooled prevalence of HIVST among MSM is 8% (95% CI: 5%–14%). Significant heterogeneity was noticed among the studies, with an I 2 value of 99% and a 95% prediction interval of 3% to 11%. Geography emerged as a significant moderator of this heterogeneity ( p < .001). Specifically, studies from China reported a notably higher prevalence of 20% (15%–26%), while other countries reported a lower prevalence of 5% (3%–6%). A symmetrical Doi plot with a Luis–Furuya–Kanamori (LFK) index of −0.57 indicated no publication bias. HIVST has a low take-up among MSM globally. Factors leading to variation in HIVST need to be studied. The coordinated efforts of policymakers, health care providers, and affected communities are required in HIVST promotion.