October 13, 2011 | Health Matters

Survey suggests people want home tests for HIV

A survey in the UK found that 63 percent of those asked would use HIV home testing kits if they were available and regulated. And just over half said that such kits would make them more likely to test themselves on a regular basis.

Of those living with HIV, 35 percent felt they would have been diagnosed earlier had such kits been available to them.

Home testing kits are not currently provided in the UK or North America. They can be purchased online, but they are not governed by any regulations, which makes them unreliable. As well, without the support of a counsellor to walk someone through a test, it is difficult to determine how individuals would handle the news should they receive a positive, or false positive, result.

Still, the survey has people calling for a change in how people get tested.

“This research shows a clear bedrock of support for the legalisation of HIV home testing kits, particularly among gay men," said Lisa Power, policy director at Terrence Higgins Trust. “We know some people will always be reluctant to visit traditional clinics; [legalizing home testing kits] would give them the option to test for HIV in their own home."

In related news, those who have tested positive for HIV have a much longer life expectancy as long as appropriate treatment is given. Between 1996 and 1999, the average life expectancy has increased by 15 years.

“This is very good news for people with HIV, their families and friends," said Sir Nick Partridge, chief executive of Terrence Higgins Trust.

"It also demonstrates why it’s so much better to know if you have HIV," he added. "Late diagnosis and late treatment mean an earlier grave, so if you've been at risk for HIV, get tested now.

“Of course, it’s not just length of life that’s important, but quality of life too, and having HIV can still severely damage your life’s chances. While so much has changed 30 years on from the start of the epidemic, condoms continue to be the best way to protect yourself and your partner from HIV in the first place.”

Home HIV tests ‘should be legalised’ [PinkNews]

HIV life expectancy rises by 15 years [PinkNews]