Uptake of HIV Testing and Associated Factors Among Individuals Aged 15-49 Years in Malawi: Multilevel Analysis of the 2024 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey

Abstract

Background HIV testing is essential for early diagnosis, treatment initiation, and achieving UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets. However, disparities in uptake remain in sub-Saharan Africa, including Malawi. Methods A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using the 2024 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey data. A total of 21,587 individuals aged 15–49 years were included. Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression was used to identify individual- and community-level factors associated with HIV testing uptake. Results The prevalence of HIV testing was 86.1%. Higher odds of HIV testing were observed among females, older age groups, individuals with higher education, richer households, married respondents, and those from the southern region. Significant community-level variation in HIV testing uptake was also identified. Conclusion Although HIV testing uptake is high in Malawi, important sociodemographic and regional disparities persist. Targeted interventions are needed to improve equitable access to HIV testing services.