New HIV/AIDS screening study findings reported from K. Deribe and co-authors

   "The present study was undertaken to determine the rate, outcomes and factors associated with HIV positive status disclosure in Southwest Ethiopia among HIV positive service users. A cross-sectional study was carried out from January 15, 2007 to March 15, 2007 in Jimma University Specialized Hospital. Data were collected using a pre-tested interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. A total of 705 people (353 women and 352 men), participated in the study of which 71.6% were taking ART. The vast majority (94.5%) disclosed their result to at least one person and 90.8% disclosed to their current main partner. However, 14.2% of disclosure was delayed and 20.6% did not know their partner's HIV status. Among those who did not disclose, 54% stated their reason as fear of negative reaction from their partner. Among those disclosures however, only 5% reported any negative reaction from the partner. Most (80.3%) reported that their partners reacted supportively to disclosure of HIV status. Disclosure of HIV results to a sexual partner was associated with knowing the partner's HIV status, advanced disease stage, low negative self-image, residing in the same house with partner, and discussion about HIV testing prior to seeking services. Although the majority of participants disclosed their test results, lack of disclosure by a minority resulted in a limited ability to engage in preventive behaviors and to access support. In addition, a considerable proportion of the participants did not know their partner's HIV status," wrote K. Deribe and colleagues, .

   The researchers concluded: "Programmatic and counseling efforts should focus on mutual disclosure of HIV test results, by encouraging individuals to ask their partner's HIV status in addition to disclosing their own."

   Deribe and colleagues published their study in BMC Public Health (Disclosure experience and associated factors among HIV positive men and women clinical service users in Southwest Ethiopia. BMC Public Health, 2008;8():81).

   For additional information, contact K. Deribe, Fayyaa Integrated Development Association-NCMI, PEPFAR-New Partners Initiative, P, O, Box 5035, Jimma, Ethiopia.

   The publisher's contact information for the journal BMC Public Health is: Biomedical Central Ltd., Middlesex House, 34-42 Cleveland St., London W1T 4LB, England.

   Keywords: Ethiopia, Jimma, HIV/AIDS Screening, AIDS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Behavior, HIV, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Public Health, Virology.

   This article was prepared by AIDS Weekly editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, AIDS Weekly via NewsRx.com.

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