Unlinked anonymous HIV testing in population-based surveys in India

Abstract

The most recent National Family Health Survey (NFHS 3, 2005-2006) was the first population-based survey in India to collect HIV
prevalence data from a representative sample of women and men (1). As in other population-based surveys aimed at estimating
national HIV prevalence, the NFHS conducted voluntary, unlinked anonymous testing (UAT) (2, 3). Eligible individuals were read
an informed consent statement including the information that they would not receive test results. Those consenting provided
blood spot samples (1). Although HIV status could not be traced back to the individual, the data were linked to non-identifying
information from individuals such as educational attainment, household wealth, and behavioural factors to facilitate an
examination of the patterns and correlates of HIV infection.