Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a global health issue that affects millions of people. It is a virus that attacks the immune system, making it difficult to fight infections and diseases. In Singapore, HIV is an emerging public health concern that demands immediate attention. According to the Ministry of Health (MOH), there were 375 new cases of HIV reported in 2019, bringing the total number of people living with HIV in Singapore to 8,732 as of December 2019.
The rise of HIV cases in Singapore is due in part to the lack of awareness and education about the infection. Some people are also not aware of anonymous HIV screening in Singapore. Moreover, the stigma surrounding HIV remains widespread, which makes it challenging for people living with HIV to seek testing and treatment. Hence, HIV testing in Singapore aims to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and provide support to those affected by the virus. To learn more HIV testing in Singapore – the types of available tests, who should get tested, and why it is important to get tested – please read this article.
Types of HIV tests available in Singapore
In Singapore, there are two types of HIV tests available, namely the rapid HIV test and the standard antibody test.
- Rapid HIV test: The rapid HIV test involves a quick finger-prick blood test that only takes around 20 minutes to obtain results. The test detects HIV antibodies in the blood and is highly accurate, with a sensitivity of up to 99.5%. Rapid HIV testing is available at most clinics and hospitals in Singapore and is often free-of-charge or at a subsidised rate.
- Standard antibody test: The standard antibody test involves a blood test that detects the presence of HIV antibodies in the blood. Unlike the rapid HIV test, the results can take up to a week to obtain. This test is usually done at a hospital or a specialised HIV clinic.
Who should get tested for HIV?
The Ministry of Health (MOH) recommends that everyone aged 15 to 64 years old get tested for HIV at least once in their lifetime. However, certain groups are at higher risk of getting infected and should get tested regularly. These include men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID), sex workers, people who have multiple sexual partners, people who have had unprotected sex with someone who is HIV positive or whose HIV status is unknown, and pregnant women.
Testing for HIV during pregnancy is essential to ensure early detection and treatment to prevent mother-to-child transmission of the virus.
Why is it important to get tested for HIV?
Getting tested for HIV is absolutely crucial for several reasons:
- Early detection and treatment: Early detection of HIV can provide timely treatment, resulting in better health outcomes. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus, allowing people living with HIV to live long and healthy lives.
- Prevention: Knowing one’s HIV status can help prevent the spread of the virus to others. People who know their status can take steps to prevent transmission, such as using condoms, practising safe sex, and seeking medical treatment.
- Reducing stigma: HIV testing can help reduce the stigma associated with the virus. By normalising HIV testing, we can encourage people to seek testing without fear of being judged or discriminated against.
It is important for sexually active people to get tested for HIV because it is a sexually transmitted infection. HIV is spread through sexual contact, and people who engage in sexual activity with multiple partners, unprotected sex, or have a partner with a history of HIV infection are more exposed to HIVs and should consider getting tested regularly.
For those who are not sexually active, there may still be a risk of HIV transmission through non-sexual means, such as sharing needles or receiving blood transfusions or organ transplants. Therefore, some people, such as healthcare workers or those who have had medical procedures involving blood or other bodily fluids, may also benefit from getting tested for HIV.
Getting tested can help individuals identify their HIV status, seek treatment, and take steps to prevent further transmission of the virus. Regular HIV testing is an essential part of overall health maintenance, and it can help individuals make informed decisions about their sexual health and wellness.
Where can I get tested for HIV in Singapore?
HIV testing is available at various healthcare settings in Singapore, including hospitals, polyclinics, and community clinics. Here are some places you can go for HIV testing:
- Anonymous testing centres: Anonymous testing centres such as Action For AIDS (AFA) and anonymous HIV screening sites provide confidential and anonymous HIV testing. These centres are staffed with friendly and non-judgmental counsellors who can provide pre- and post-test counselling on HIV and related issues.
- Government clinics and hospitals: Several government clinics and hospitals offer HIV testing services, such as the Department of STI Control (DSC) clinics, National Skin Centre, and Tan Tock Seng Hospital. These facilities provide a wide range of services, including HIV testing and counselling. Some of these services may be free-of-charge or at a subsidised rate.
- Private clinics and hospitals: Private clinics like Artisan Health Clinic and hospitals also offer HIV testing services, though the cost may be higher than government healthcare facilities. These clinics may also provide more privacy and personalised care.
Last but not the least – is HIV testing in Singapore safe and effective?
HIV testing is safe and effective in detecting the presence of the virus in an individual’s body. Tests for HIV are highly accurate, with over 99% reliability when done correctly. They involve either a blood or oral fluid sample, which is then analyzed in a laboratory. In addition, many countries have established strict regulations and guidelines for HIV testing to ensure that the process is safe and confidential. It’s important to get tested for HIV if you are at risk or have concerns about your status, as early detection and treatment can greatly improve health outcomes.
Anonymous HIV testing in Singapore is available at Artisan Health Clinic. Visit their website or clinic for more information.
Artisan Health Clinic
Paragon
290 Orchard Road #07-01,
Paragon Medical Suites,
Singapore 238859
https://www.artisanhealthclinic.sg/
Phone / Whatsapp
(65) 8129 8877
