Social-ecological predictors of HIV testing among adult men: analysis of the 2022 Tanzania demographic and health survey data.

BACKGROUND

The uptake of HIV testing among men in Tanzania remains suboptimal. This study aimed to identify social-ecological predictors of HIV testing among this demographic group in Tanzania.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from the 2022 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey. The study population included adult men aged 15-49 years. Data were weighted to account for the complex survey design. A modified Poisson regression model was used to examine predictors of recent HIV testing.

RESULTS

A total of 5763 men, with a mean age of 28.6±10 years, were included in the analysis. The prevalence of ever having tested for HIV was 64.7%, while only 30.6% reported testing within the last 12 months. At the individual level, men aged 25-35 years (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) 1.23, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.47) and those aware of sexually transmitted infections (aPR 1.27, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.47) demonstrated a higher prevalence of recent HIV testing. Interpersonal factors associated with higher testing prevalence included being in a marital union and having multiple sexual partners. At the community level, geographical variation was evident: men in the Southern Highlands zone (aPR 1.18, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.39) had higher testing prevalence, while those in the Western zone (aPR 0.78, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.95) had lower prevalence. Societal factors, such as owning a mobile phone and having knowledge of HIV testing kits, were also linked to higher testing prevalence.

CONCLUSION

HIV testing among men in Tanzania remains suboptimal and is influenced by factors across individual, interpersonal, community and societal levels. Interventions that enhance awareness, improve access to testing services and create male-friendly healthcare environments are essential for achieving the 95-95-95 targets.