Factors associated with men's disclosure of an HPV test result to their main partner

Background: Despite the high prevalence of HPV, men typically have not played a role in HPV education/prevention. Little is known about men's disclosure of HPV test results to sexual partners. Purpose: Determine factors associated with men's disclosure of HPV test results to sexual partners. Methods: Men in a psychosocial study of responses to HPV testing who reported having a main sex partner (N=272) completed surveys including questions about: HPV test results; disclosure of HPV test results to partner(s); and knowledge, efficacy, and perceived threat regarding HPV. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted in SAS (reporting odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals) to determine factors associated with disclosure of HPV test results. Results: Most men disclosed their test results to their main partner (n=224, 82%). Neither knowledge nor perceived threat was associated with disclosure. Greater self-efficacy; however, was associated with disclosure (crude OR=1.22, 95%CI: 1.13-1.32). Self-efficacy remained significant in the multivariable logistic regression model (OR=1.22, 95%CI: 1.13-1.32). The following self-efficacy questions were individually associated with disclosure: “I feel I can tell my partner my result,” “I feel I can suggest my partner get a Pap test,” “I feel I can ask my partner if she has gotten a Pap test,” and “I feel I can get tested for STIs.” Conclusion: Most men disclosed their test results; those who disclosed had higher self-efficacy scores for discussing HPV-related issues with their partner. Interventions that focus on improving men's self-efficacy for discussing STI-related topics with partners may bolster STI prevention efforts.