The Feasibility and Acceptability of an HIV Web- Based Screening Program in Iran

Background: Poor diagnosis remains a significant barrier to effective HIV control in Iran. A web-based screening programcould provide a novel approach to address this challenge. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a web-based HIV screening program for identifying individuals with high-risk HIV behaviors in Iran.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an educational website where individuals could anonymously complete a risk assessment questionnaire. Those with a history of high-risk behaviors were invited to attend voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) centers for HIV testing. Various strategies, including text messages, Instagram posts, and advertisements on local health center websites, were employed to promote website visitation.Results: The website received 11,581 visits from 4,303 unique Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. Of these, 3,079 visitors (71.0%) accessed the questionnaire section, and 456 (14.8%) completed the questionnaire. Nine respondents (1.97%) were under 16 years old and were excluded. Among the remaining 447 participants, 254 (56.8%) were from Tabriz City. Of these, 180 (70.9%) reported engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors, drug use, or occupational exposure. Notably, this group’s five individuals (2.8%) reported visiting VCT centers after completing the questionnaire.Conclusion: Developing an educational website combined with targeted promotion appears to be a feasible and potentially effective strategy for increasing awareness of HIV and motivating individuals to seek testing. Incorporating online counseling and interactive educational materials managed by trained professionals may enhance the program’s impact. Further studies are recommended to comprehensively evaluate this approach’s feasibility and acceptability.