Characteristics Associated with HIV Testing Frequency Among Gay and Bisexual Cisgender Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States: Cross-sectional Study.

Abstract

Current HIV testing recommendations for sexually active gay and bisexual men who have sex with men (GBMSM) are to test for HIV annually. However, some GBMSM might benefit from more frequent HIV testing. We conducted a cross-sectional, online survey of cisgender GBMSM across the United States. Data collection occurred from October 2022-October 2023. Participants reported demographic information, sexual behavior, and HIV testing frequency over the past 2 years. HIV testing frequency was categorized as less than annual, annual, or greater than annual. We examined demographic, behavioral, mental health, and stigma correlates of HIV testing frequency among respondents without a history of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use. Of 1972 GBMSM included in the analysis, 1171 (59%), 379 (19%), and 422 (21%) reported less than annual, annual, and greater than annual HIV testing, respectively. Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black GBMSM, who experience the highest HIV incidence among GBMSM, were likely to test more frequently than non-Hispanic White GBMSM. More frequent testing was also associated with PrEP eligibility; less frequent testing was associated with living in a non-urban area. More frequent HIV testing was reported by groups that experience higher HIV incidence and by those who had indications for PrEP, indicating that HIV testing frequency aligns with need for many GBMSM. More efforts are needed to increase HIV testing among GBMSM who test less frequently, including those living in rural areas.