A study in Kenya and Uganda indicates that youth would like access to HIV testing and counseling services if the services are confidential, honest, and inexpensive. Because little is known about whether VCT is appropriate for youth, the study began with a first phase of exploratory research to identify opportunities for and limitations of providing VCT for youth. Although convenience samples cannot be used to generalize to larger populations, the respondents provided valuable comments and suggestions for improving services for young people. Phase one was completed in May 2000. During phase two, different service delivery and promotional strategies identified in phase one will be tested to determine whether they increase the use of and satisfaction with VCT among young women and men.
Most tested youth intend to practice safer sex .
Among young people who had taken an HIV test, most said they will adopt safer behaviors such as abstaining from sexual intercourse, practicing monogamy, using condoms, or reducing the number of sexual partners. Males and females reported similar intentions, except in Uganda, where the proportion of females who intend to practice monogamy was statistically greater than for males. Counseling is a valued part of HIV testing. When asked to name the satisfactory aspects of their testing experience, more clients mentioned the counseling than any other component. I liked the fact that they told me to go back to them after the test.