The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) said on Friday that they are going to push for community-based HIV testing in an effort to end the AIDS epidemic in the Asia-Pacific region.

In a joint statement, WHO and UNAIDS said research has long shown that anti-retroviral (ARV) medicines reduce AIDS-related deaths and prevent HIV transmission. These benefits, however, are only likely to occur if individuals know their status and start treatment early.

"Early HIV diagnosis through different HIV testing approaches has become an important strategy for HIV prevention and control in the 21st century," said WHO Regional Director for Western Pacific Shin Young-soo.

"Moreover, people diagnosed with HIV should be linked to care and start treatment as early as possible to harness the benefits of antiretroviral treatment," he noted.

Across the region, knowledge about HIV testing and counseling among key populations is low. Key populations are at higher risk for HIV, said the joint statement.

The statement shows that 10 national HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infection (STI) programs, civil society and development partners in the region have joined forces to ensure that everyone living with HIV knows their status and is able to access HIV treatment.

To expand HIV testing, national HIV/AIDS and STI managers from priority Asian and Pacific island countries and partners agreed on diversified approaches to encourage testing at both formal and community-based services.

Hospitals, clinics and other health facilities need to offer more voluntary HIV testing and counseling during routine check-ups, including antenatal visits. Voluntary testing of intimate partners of people living with HIV should also be included.

Community-based testing models include having one rapid HIV screening test done by a peer supporter in a familiar environment.

If the initial test result is positive, a follow up confirmatory test in a health facility is indicated.

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