Campaigns for HIV testing, an effective strategy for universal access to prevention and treatment? The experience of Burkina Faso

Abstract

Objectives: Increasing the rate of people who know their HIV status is imperative, particularly in sub Saharan Africa, and this requires an assessment of strategies for increasing the utilization of testing services. This article discusses the relevance, feasibility, and effectiveness of national screening campaigns conducted between 2006 and 2010 in Burkina Faso. Methodology: An analysis of all data regarding testing uptake from 2006 to 2010 was conducted, along with interviews of key participants in the process. Results: The results show that the 8 screening campaigns led to HIV testing of 487,727 people, that is, 50% of the total number of people tested and 24.6% of HIV+ people diagnosed during this period. Campaigns succeeded in testing populations that are difficult to reach (especially young people), at a low cost. Conclusions: This strategy is relevant and useful for identifying HIV+ people. Its utility for HIV prevention campaigns requires further study. Campaigns are effective and cost-effective even in this country with a low disease prevalence. These results underline the importance of the synergy between community-based organizations and health services in the provision of counseling and testing.