Self-disclosure of HIV serostatus and influencing factors in rural areas in China

Objective To understand self-disclosure of HIV serostatus and influencing factors in rural areas in China.Methods A total of 497 rural residents who were tested with HIV from Jan 2006 to Jun 2008 were conveniently selected in two rural counties in Dehong Prefecture,Yunnan province.A self-administered anonymous questionnaire was used to collect information about demographic characteristics,HIV counseling and testing and self-disclosure.Results 78.9% of respondents disclosed their HIV status to regular sexual partner(s),6.3%,78.9% and 21.1% told to their casual sexual partners,family members and friends respectively.Type of sexual partnership(OR=16.97,95% CI:1.57～183.65),pre-test counseling service(OR=5.18,95% CI:1.69～15.82)and psychological support after disclosure(OR=8.64,95% CI:1.13～66.32)were associated with partner notification.Conclusions Spouse/regular sexual partner(s)and family members were the main subjects of disclosure in rural areas.To increase rate of partner notification and to reduce risk sexual behaviors among HIV positive people,discussion on partner notification must be included during HIV testing and counseling and psychological support is needed to provide care and support for HIV-infected rural residents.