Abstract

Dr. Abhishek Somani*, Dr. Mrinalini Motlag, Dr. Himani Baxy

ABSTRACT

Objectives: 1) To assess the reason for HIV testing; 2) To assess the severity of anxiety in patients coming for HIV testing and associate it with socio-demographic characteristics. Methods: The cross-sectional study was carried out on 131 subjects who attended the Integrated Counseling and Testing Center at IGGMC, Nagpurfrom mid-April to mid-July 2016.A paper-based interview was conducted for each subject before HIV testingcollecting information on socio-demographic characteristics, addiction, the reasons for HIV testing and severity of anxiety. For measuring severity of anxiety, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale was used. Statistical analysis: Chi-square test, proportions and other basic methods of data interpretation Results: About 39% (n=51) of the sample showed moderate to severe anxiety symptoms. Higher levels of anxiety were reported among females, the unemployed, the unmarried and smokers. Unprotected sexual behavior was reported in 34.35% of the sample out of which 60% showed moderate/severe anxiety. Conclusion: The findings show that significant number of people showed high levels of anxiety and should be identified, counselled and assisted to seek psychiatric treatment as an integral part of HIV management.