Sexual behavior and personal initiative to take the HIV test among men who have sex with men in Semarang, Indonesia

Abstract

The HIV test is an important strategy for HIV prevention and treatment, starting from screening individuals who are unaware of being  infected with HIV and requiring antiretroviral therapy. Information about sexual behavior factors related to HIV testing initiatives among  MSM in Indonesia is still limited. Previous studies only showed the correlation of various sexual behavior variables with the decision  whether to obtain an HIV test or not; but did not learn whether the HIV testing was obtained due to personal  initiative or invited by  others. This research can be used as a reference for developing an HIV testing program based on sexual behavior variables. This research  aims to study the sexual behavior factors related to the personal initiative on taking the HIV test among men who have sex with  men (MSM). We used cross-sectional study among 300 MSM who had an HIV test. This research found that homosexual orientation  was negative factor related to the personal initiative for obtaining an HIV test. Sexual behavior among MSM is correlated with the  personal initiative to take HIV testing. Further investigation should emphasize among homosexuals because they do not have the  initiative to take an HIV test.