Comprehensive Review of HIV Testing Strategies and Practices in Uganda

Mugo Moses H.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

                                                                       ABSTRACT

HIV/AIDS remains a critical public health challenge in Uganda, with the country experiencing some of the highest prevalence rates in East Africa. HIV testing is a cornerstone of Uganda’s response to the epidemic, serving as the gateway to early diagnosis, timely treatment, and effective prevention of further transmission. This comprehensive review explores the evolution of HIV testing strategies and practices in Uganda, offering an in-depth analysis of their historical context, current methodologies, and the challenges they face. The review begins by tracing the historical development of HIV testing in Uganda, highlighting the country’s early recognition of the epidemic in the 1980s and the subsequent efforts to expand testing access. It examines various testing strategies, including voluntary counseling and testing (VCT), provider-initiated testing and counseling (PITC), and community-based testing, as well as the adoption of innovative diagnostic technologies such as rapid diagnostic tests and self-testing kits. Despite the progress made, challenges such as stigma, uneven access to services, and quality assurance issues persist, hindering the effectiveness of these testing strategies. The review delves into these challenges, discussing their impact on HIV testing uptake and the overall HIV response in Uganda. It also evaluates the policy and programmatic responses implemented to address these obstacles, emphasizing the role of the Uganda AIDS Commission (UAC) and the importance of sustainable funding, training, and capacity-building initiatives. Looking forward, the review offers recommendations for enhancing HIV testing efforts in Uganda. These include expanding access to underserved populations, intensifying efforts to reduce stigma, improving quality assurance mechanisms, integrating testing with other health services, and leveraging technological innovations. By addressing these issues, Uganda can further strengthen its HIV testing programs and continue to make strides in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic. This review aims to inform policy and practice, providing insights and recommendations that can contribute to a more robust and equitable HIV response in Uganda.

Keywords: HIV, Testing, Strategies, Practices, Uganda

CITE AS: Mugo Moses H. (2024). Comprehensive Review of HIV Testing Strategies and Practices in Uganda. IDOSR JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY 9(3):16-22 https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSR/JBCP/24/93.1622000