Protocol: evaluation of an optimised couples-focused intervention to increase testing for HIV in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, the Igugu Lethu ('Our treasure') cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Between 2012 and 2015, the Uthando Lwethu (UL) study demonstrated that a theory-based behavioural couples-focused intervention significantly increased participation in couples HIV testing and counselling (CHTC) among South African couples who had never previously tested for HIV together or mutually disclosed their HIV status, 42% compared to 12% of the control group at 9 months follow-up. Although effective, we were nonetheless concerned that in this high prevalence setting the majority (58%) of intervention couples chose not to test together. In response we optimised the UL intervention and in a new study, 'Igugu Lethu', we are evaluating the success of the optimised intervention in promoting CHTC.

Methods

One hundred eighty heterosexual couples, who have been in

SUBMITTER: McGrath N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9389496 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature