High-risk sexual behaviors and HIV testing correlates among online community-recruited migrants in Okinawa and Fukuoka, Japan
Inrasothythep Neth, Supriya Shakya, Chunyan Li, Hue Tran Thi, Tsutomu KitajimaPurpose
Routine human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing can improve HIV prevention and care among international migrants, who are often at high risk for delayed diagnosis. This study aims to assess HIV testing prevalence, HIV-related sexual behaviors and associated factors among migrants in Okinawa and Fukuoka, Japan.
Design/methodology/approach
A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 773 international migrants residing in Okinawa and Fukuoka, Japan, between January 2023 and March 2024. Participants were recruited through migrant community organizations, social networking services and snowball sampling. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with HIV testing uptake and interest in testing.
Findings
Most participants in Okinawa (68.1%) and Fukuoka (61.0%) were male. Approximately 26.0% reported ever testing for HIV in Japan, and 71.5% were unaware of free testing locations. A high prevalence of unprotected sex was observed, and 24.0% reported a lifetime sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosis. Multivariable analysis identified age, sexual history, perceived HIV risk, gender identity, housing status, knowledge of testing access, Japanese language proficiency, place of residence (Okinawa versus Fukuoka) and prior HIV testing as significant factors associated with testing uptake and intentions.
Originality/value
Low HIV testing rates and high levels of unprotected sex among Okinawa and Fukuoka migrants point to a heightened risk of HIV/STI epidemic escalation. Language barriers and limited access to information highlight the need for migrant-friendly screening and accessible prevention services. The findings underscore the importance of culturally tailored interventions to improve HIV testing and sexual health among migrants in Japan.