HIV Testing, Access to HIV-Related Services, and Late-Stage HIV Diagnoses Across US States, 2013-2016.

Abstract

<i>Objectives.</i> To examine state-level factors associated with late-stage HIV diagnoses in the United States.<i>Methods.</i> We examined state-level factors associated with late-stage diagnoses by estimating negative binomial regression models. We used 2013 to 2016 data from the National HIV Surveillance System (late-stage diagnoses), the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (HIV testing), and the American Community Survey (sociodemographics).<i>Results.</i> Among individuals 25 to 44 years old, a 5% increase in the percentage of the state population tested for HIV in the preceding 12 months was associated with a 3% decrease in late-stage diagnoses. Among both individuals 25 to 44 years of age and those aged 45 years and older, a 5% increase in the percentage of the population living in a rural area was associated with a 2% to 3% increase in late-stage diagnoses.<i>Conclusions.</i> Increasing HIV testing may lower late-stage HIV diagnoses among younger individuals. Increasing HIV-related services may benefit both younger and older people in rural areas.