Increasing HIV testing among African immigrants in ireland: challenges and opportunities

J Immigr Minor Health. 2015 Feb;17(1):89-95. doi: 10.1007/s10903-014-9986-x.

Abstract

In 2012, immigrants constitute 63% of new cases of heterosexually transmitted HIV among individuals born outside Ireland. Current strategies to encourage testing can be ineffective if immigrants perceive them as culturally insensitive. We obtained qualitative data to explore challenges to voluntary HIV-testing for immigrants in Ireland. Content analysis was undertaken to identify and describe pertinent themes. Widespread beliefs that HIV is primarily a disease of African immigrants were identified as challenges that constrain access to testing and care. The organization and location of testing services, attitude of health workers, and beliefs regarding mandatory HIV-testing for immigrants seeking access to welfare benefits were also identified. Immigrants in Ireland encounter a variety of structural, cultural and personal constraints to HIV testing. Opportunities exist in the Irish Health system to increase testing among immigrants through greater acknowledgement of cultural sensitivities of immigrant groups.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Africa / ethnology
  • Counseling
  • Cultural Characteristics
  • Emigrants and Immigrants / psychology*
  • Emigrants and Immigrants / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • HIV Infections / diagnosis*
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections / ethnology*
  • Health Services Accessibility*
  • Humans
  • Ireland / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Mass Screening
  • Middle Aged
  • Qualitative Research
  • Social Stigma