Factors associated with HIV testing: Results from an Italian general population survey

Background. HIV testing, with appropriate counseling, can help prevent the spread of HIV infection. This study is the first national survey in Italy t hat examines factors associated with serotesting among Italian heterosexual s and is part of a European Concerted Action. Methods. In 1998, a cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted on a ran dom sample (n = 2,603) of the Italian population ages 18-49 years. Associat ions between HIV testing and risky sexual behaviors (multiple sexual partne rs in the past 5 years, intercourse with prostitutes, not always using cond oms with a new sexual partner) and sociodemographic variables are examined separately for men and women using multiple logistic regression. Results. The prevalence of having ever been tested for HIV, whether volunta rily or not, among heterosexual men and women is 27.0 and 32.8%, respective ly. Voluntary testing is reported by 8.4% of heterosexual men and 6.1% of h eterosexual women. Multivariate analysis shows that having multiple sexual partners significantly increases the odds of testing (Men: OR = 2.10; 95% C I: 1.3-3.4. Women: OR = 3.03; 95% CI: 1.7-5.4). Multiple logistic regressio n, controlling for risky behavior, shows also that persons ages 30-39 years have significantly higher probability of being tested than younger subject s (Men: OR = 3.30; 95% CI: 1.4-7.9. Women: OR = 2,61; 95% CI:1.1-6.4). Bett er educated women tend to have a higher probability of testing, but this in crease is not significant at the 5% level. Conclusions. The prevalence of voluntary serotesting in Italy is lower than in other countries. Risky sexual behavior is associated with higher odds o f testing; however, a high proportion of at-risk heterosexuals never sought testing. Particular attention should be dedicated to younger persons and t o less educated women. (C) 2000 American Health Foundation and Academic Pre ss.