Social network-based approaches to HIV testing: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Social network-based testing approaches (SNAs) encourage individuals ("test promoters") to motivate sexual partners and/or those in their social networks to test for HIV. We conducted a systematic review to examine the effectiveness, acceptability and cost-effectiveness of SNA.

Methods

We searched five databases from January 2010 to May 2023, and included studies that compared SNA with non-SNA. We used random-effects meta-analysis to combine effect estimates. Certainty was assessed using the GRADE approach.

Results

We identified 47 studies. SNA may increase uptake of HIV testing compared to non-SNA (RR 2.04, 95% CI: 1.06-3.95, Low certainty). The proportion of first-time testers was probably higher among partners or social contacts of test promoters using

SUBMITTER: Choong A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11386243 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature