Utilisation of Oral-Based HIV Self-Testing: Secondary Data Analysis of the HIV Self-Testing Project Implemented by Ghana HIV and Aids Network (GHANET) in 2024.

Abstract

Background: HIV self-testing (HIVST) represents a key innovation in expanding access to HIV diagnosis, particularly among populations reluctant to test at health facilities. In Ghana, oral-based HIVST kits have been widely distributed to improve early diagnosis and bridge testing gaps. However, limited evidence exists on the actual utilisation of the kits after distribution. Objective: This study assessed the utilisation of oral-based HIV self-testing kits and examine the socio demographic and behavioural factors influencing their use among recipients under the 2024 HIV Self-Testing Project implemented by the Ghana HIV and AIDS Network (GHANET). Methods: A secondary data analysis was conducted using records of 77,573 participants from all thirteen regions of implementation in Ghana. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to explore associations between socio demographic, behavioural, and promotional factors and the utilisation of HIVST kits. Results: Overall, utilisation of HIVST kits was 95.78%, indicating a high level of acceptance. The mean age of participants was 30.4 years (SD = 0.04), and 62.6% were males. Utilisation was significantly associated with age (p < 0.001), sex (p = 0.001), occupation (p < 0.001), and region (p < 0.001). Participants who had previous HIV testing experience were more likely to use the kits (AOR = 0.51, p < 0.001), while those assisted with instructional videos were over twice as likely to utilise them (AOR = 2.44, p < 0.001). Conclusion: University of Ghana http://ugspace.ug.edu.gh The study found that utilisation of oral-based HIVST kits in Ghana was impressively high, reflecting successful implementation of the self-testing initiative. Nonetheless, variations across demographic and regional lines suggest a need for tailored behavioural support, continuous education, and targeted interventions to sustain high utilisation rates.