Willingness to use HIV Self-Testing and its Influencing Factors Among a MSM Community in the North Sulawesi Region of Indonesia.

The adoption of HIVST testing is confronted with significant challenges, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM) as a key population. This study aims to investigate factors influencing the decision to use HIVST among MSM in Indonesia. A cross-sectional study (July-September 2024) examined factors influencing willingness to use HIV self-testing (HIVST) among MSM in the North Sulawesi region. Participants (n=200), recruited via NGOs and WhatsApp, were ≥17 years and had recent same-sex activity. HIVST kits were distributed by NGO staff who also provided data collection, counseling, and referrals. Willingness was measured using a Likert scale. Data included demographics, HIV testing history, HIVST knowledge, and confidence in test accuracy. Informed consent was obtained, and participants completed anonymous online surveys. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with willingness to use HIVST. Among 200 MSM respondents, 32% reported a high willingness to use HIVST. Significant associations were found with age (p<0.001), education (p=0.039), and prior HIV testing (p<0.001). Knowledge of HIVST and trust in test accuracy were both significantly related to willingness (p<0.05). Logistic regression showed that being "slightly" or "very familiar" with HIVST increased the odds of willingness (OR=4.073 and 6.869, respectively; p=0.044 and p=0.009). The HIVST is a potentially effective instrument for the expansion of testing among MSM in Indonesia, with a focus on enhancing awareness, addressing misconceptions, and establishing support systems for linkage to care.