Overcoming cultural barriers to implementing oral HIV self-testing with high fidelity among Tanzanian youth
Tanzanian youth have high levels of HIV risk and poor access to HIV-testing. Oral self-implemented testing Oral-SIT) provides an alternative that reduces barriers to HIV-testing. We examined adaptations to Oral-SIT training components in a randomized experiment to evaluate a “train-the-trainer” strategy for improving comprehension of graphic training materials. Participants N = 257 age = 14-19 years) were randomly assigned to one of two self-training conditions: graphic instruction book GIB) or Video-GIB. Outcomes included behavioral performance fidelity self-reported comprehension and intentions to seek treatment. Video-GIB participants relative to GIB-only participants had higher performance fidelity scores made fewer performance errors had better instruction comprehension and were more likely to intend to seek treatment. Oral-SIT timing errors were significantly more common among GIB-only participants. Graphic training materials in conjunction with a “train-the-trainer” video has significant potential for increasing Oral-SIT’s reach by overcoming technological and literacy barriers.
Catania J. A. H. C. Dolcini M. M. Urban A. J. Fleury N. Ndyetabula C. Singh R. Young A. W. Conserve D. F. Lace J. Msigwa J. S. 2019). Overcoming cultural barriers to implementing oral HIV self-testing with high fidelity among Tanzanian youth. Transl Behav Med. doi:10.1093/tbm/ibz157