1. www.ias2011.org DETERMINANTS OF VOLUNTARY HIV COUNSELING AND TESTING (VCT) AMONG FEMALE SEX WORKERS (FSW) IN NIGERIA B. Ogunbiyi, B. Aiyenigba, T. Badru, C. Suzuki, C. Hamelmann & O. Chabikuli FHI, Nigeria MOPDC0104

2. www.ias2011.org Background Recent studies in Nigeria have documented high HIV prevalence among FSW: 37.4% and 30.2% for brothel- and non-brothel-based FSW, respectively. Uptake of reported VCT is low. Undetected infections due to low uptake of voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) could be fuelling the HIV epidemic among this group. This study describes the correlates of uptake of VCT among FSW in 6 selected states in Nigeria and implication for further interventions.

3. www.ias2011.org Methods We analyzed data from the 2007 National HIV/STI Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Survey (IBBSS). Brothel- and non-brothel- based FSW aged 15-49 years in six states were selected through cluster and time-location sampling techniques, respectively. Information on sexual behaviours, risk perception and previous VCT was collected with a structured questionnaire administered through face- to-face interviews. Multivariate analysis was conducted with STATA 10.0 to identify correlates of VCT.

4. www.ias2011.org Results Factors associated with ever being tested were: knowledge of confidential nature of test (AOR 3.9, p<0.001), being brothel-based (AOR 2.4, p<0.001), age (20-24 y (AOR 1.5, p=0.03), >25 y (AOR 1.5, p=0.01), referent: 15-19 y), education (secondary (AOR 1.5, p<0.001), tertiary (AOR 1.4, p=0.03), referent: primary and below), perceived self at risk of HIV infection (AOR 1.2, p=0.02). 2,965 FSW (100%) Median age= 25y Believed confidential testing is possible 28.0% Ever tested for HIV 41.5% Tested within the last 12months 60.6% Tested and received result 91.5% Tested voluntarily 80.1% Pre and Post test counseling 53.2% Referred for VCT in the last 12months 9.2%

5. www.ias2011.org Conclusion A large gap exist in VCT uptake among brothel- and non- brothel-based FSW Self-perceived non-confidentiality of HIV test is a major barrier to VCT uptake There is an urgent need to address barriers to utilization of VCT services among FSW in order to improve VCT uptake and dispel fears of non-confidentiality of testing. These interventions should specifically be tailored to: –young FSW (15-24years) –those with primary or no education and –non-brothel-based FSW