Exploring social harms during distribution of HIV self-testing kits using mixed-methods approaches in Malawi.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

HIV self-testing (HIVST) provides couples and individuals with a discreet, convenient and empowering testing option. As with all HIV testing, potential harms must be anticipated and mitigated to optimize individual and public health benefits. Here, we describe social harms (SHs) reported during HIVST implementation in Malawi, and propose a framework for grading and responding to harms, according to their severity.

Methods

We report findings from six HIVST implementation studies in Malawi (2011 to 2017) that included substudies investigating SH reports. Qualitative methods included focus group discussions, in-depth interviews and critical incident interviews. Earlier studies used intensive quantitative methods (post-test questionnaires for intimate partner violen

SUBMITTER: Kumwenda MK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6432111 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature