Evaluating the Impact of Social Network-Based Distribution on HIV Self-Testing Uptake Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Dakar, Senegal: A Systematic Review

Men who have sex with men in Senegal face significant barriers to conventional HIV testing due to stigma and criminalisation. HIV self-testing offers a discreet alternative, but effective distribution models to reach this key population are required. Social network-based distribution, which leverages existing peer networks, is a theoretically promising strategy to increase uptake. This systematic review aimed to synthesise existing evidence to evaluate the impact of social network-based distribution models on HIV self-testing uptake specifically among men who have sex with men in Dakar, Senegal. A systematic search of multiple electronic databases was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Peer-reviewed studies and relevant grey literature reporting on social network-based HIV self-testing distribution interventions for men who have sex with men in Dakar were included. Studies were screened, selected, and data extracted independently by two reviewers. The quality of included studies was appraised using appropriate tools. No primary studies meeting the specific inclusion criteria were identified. The search revealed a notable evidence gap regarding the formal evaluation of this intervention model within the defined population and geographical setting. Available literature highlighted the theoretical acceptability of peer-led distribution but provided no empirical data on measured changes in HIV self-testing uptake. There is a critical lack of peer-reviewed evidence quantifying the impact of social network-based distribution on HIV self-testing uptake among men who have sex with men in Dakar. While conceptually supported, the effectiveness of this model in this context remains unmeasured. Primary implementation research is urgently needed to design and evaluate social network-based HIV self-testing distribution programmes for Senegalese men who have sex with men. Future studies should employ robust designs to measure uptake and linkage to care. Researchers should also consider documenting such interventions in the grey literature to inform practice. HIV self-testing, men who have sex with men, social networks, peer distribution, Senegal, systematic review, key populations This review systematically identifies and documents a specific evidence gap in a high-priority public health area. It provides a clear justification for focused primary research to inform the scale-up of HIV self-testing among a key population in Senegal.