Methodology

SHIMS is a cohort study design consisting of a household-based, nationally representative longitudinal cohort, Cohort 1. At Time 1 (T1), a pre-cohort survey was conducted among a nationally-representative group of men and women, ages 18-49. Self-reported male circumcision prevalence was obtained during the pre-cohort survey interview. Home-based, HIV counseling and testing was also conducted and provided a pre-cohort HIV prevalence measure. Pre-cohort survey participants who tested at T1 as HIV-uninfected were recruited to participate in Cohort 1.

At Time 2 (T2), approximately six months after recruitment, a follow-up survey was conducted among Cohort 1 participants. Home-based, HIV counseling and testing was also conducted and provided a HIV incidence rate among persons who tested HIV-positive at T2.