Evaluating Rapid Oral HIV Tests in Rural India
Author Information
Author(s): Pant Pai Nitika, Joshi Rajnish, Dogra Sandeep, Taksande Bharati, Kalantri S.P., Pai Madhukar, Narang Pratibha, Tulsky Jacqueline P., Reingold Arthur L.
Primary Institution: Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sevagram, Maharashtra, India
Hypothesis
Can oral fluid-based rapid HIV tests improve diagnosis and client preference in rural India?
Conclusion
The OraQuick® Rapid-HIV1/2 test was found to be highly accurate and preferred by participants in a rural Indian hospital setting.
Supporting Evidence
- The OraQuick test on oral fluid specimens had a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 100%.
- 87% of participants preferred the oral fluid test for first-time testing.
- The study found a seropositivity rate of 32% among participants.
Takeaway
This study shows that a quick and easy saliva test for HIV is very accurate and many people prefer it over blood tests.
Methodology
A cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted with 450 participants using both oral fluid and finger stick tests, compared to a reference standard.
Limitations
The study was conducted in a select clinic population and may not represent the general rural population.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 34 years, 74% were men, and most were rural laborers and farmers.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 28%, 37%
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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