Facilitating HIV Testing and Disclosure with Children and Adolescents

Testing and disclosure are major barriers to treating infants and children with HIV. This report presents findings from a study exploring issues related to testing and disclosure for children in age groups 0-6, 7-14, and 15-18. The exploratory study used qualitative and quantitative methods and was conducted in Andhra Pradesh and Manipur, India. The study had three objectives: 1) to identify factors that prevent parents and caregivers from seeking HIV testing for children; 2) to understand issues related to parent/caregiver disclosure of HIV status to children and the social impact of disclosure; and 3) to present policy and practice solutions to these issues based on findings. Key findings highlight factors that prevent testing for children, including stigma and discrimination, financial constraints, lack of awareness, and attitudinal issues among service providers. Recommendations include making testing centers more approachable and affordable, building community awareness of improved services, addressing stigma and discrimination using participatory techniques, and HIV counseling and support groups.