Timeliness of diagnosis of HIV: a quantitative and qualitative study

Boyd, Sarah Elizabeth (2017) Timeliness of diagnosis of HIV: a quantitative and qualitative study. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Introduction: A CD4 count <200 at diagnosis results in negative health outcomes and suggests delays in HIV testing. Objectives: To describe the timeliness of HIV diagnosis in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) and explore the reasons for delay. Methods: Demographic and clinical information from new HIV diagnoses in NL between 2006- 2016 were collected (n=58). Subjects were invited to interviews regarding testing barriers. Results: At diagnosis the mean age was 40.6, 53/58 (91.4%) were male, 33/58 (56.9%) were men who have sex with men, and 21/58 (36.2%) had a CD4 count <200. For 39/58 (67.2%), their first test was positive, though 55/58 (94.8%) had previous healthcare contact. Heterosexuals were more likely to present late (p=0.049). Barriers to testing were negative healthcare interactions, stigma, being unaware of their risk, and fear of the diagnosis. Conclusions: We defined missed opportunities for testing. Heterosexual men are more likely to test late. Late diagnosis may be prevented if testing is normalized.

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