Factors Associated with HIV Testing Uptake in Cameroon: Data from the 2018 Cameroon Demographic and Health Survey.

Background: HIV represents a significant public health challenge, contributing to increased mortality and morbidity within the population. Despite the implementation of various HIV testing strategies, the uptake rate of HIV testing remains low.

Objective: This study aims to assess the factors associated with HIV testing uptake among women and men in Cameroon.

Methods: A secondary analysis of the 2018 Cameroon demographic and health survey (DHS) was conducted using data of sexually active men and women aged 15-64. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify the key factors associated with HIV testing in Cameroon.

Results: We included a total of 18,112 participants (12563 women and 5549 men). The study found that 47.8% (95% CI 46.9-48.7) of women and 45% (95% CI 43.7-46.3) of men were tested for HIV in the past 12 months. Among women and men, age above 20-24 years (AOR= 1.3, p<0.01 vs AOR= 2.3, p<0.001), a high level of education (AOR= 2.1, p<0.001 vs AOR= 2.3, p<0.001) and high wealth (AOR= 1.9, p<0.001 AOR= 2.0, p<0.001) were positively associated with HIV testing uptake. Conversely, residing in the northern regions (AOR= 0.5, p<0.001 vs AOR= 0.4, p<0.001), was negatively associated. Among men, no independent significant association was found between HIV testing uptake and never being married.

Conclusion: This study, utilizing data from the Cameroon DHS, provides valuable insights into HIV testing in Cameroon. To achieve UNAIDS targets of "zero new infections and zero deaths" by 2030, interventions must prioritize less educated individuals, younger age groups and low income earners. The findings from this research can inform recommendations for decision-makers and contribute to the development of effective public health interventions to combat HIV in Cameroon.