Prevalence and determinants of the use of self-tests by members of the public to diagnose or screen for conditions without the involvement of a health professional

Abstract

Self-tests that involve taking a biological sample to diagnose or screen for conditions without a health professional are available to the public, but they could potentially cause harm, such as false reassurance. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of their use and factors associated with using them. A systematic internet search established the availability of self-tests and informed the design of an initial questionnaire about whether people registered with general practices had used them. Interviews with respondents and a systematic literature review informed the design of an in-depth questionnaire to confirm use and investigate associated factors. It was estimated that 55 (95% confidence interval 41-68) per 1000 men and 95 (81-110) per 1000 women have self-tested excluding for pregnancy. Use was predicted (p<0.1) by: knowing about a range of tests, seeking health information, exercising less frequently, reporting not good health, having worked as a health professional, and believing health was controlled by chance and not powerful others. Being less satisfied with GP consultations and strongly agreeing that you should only see the doctor if you have serious symptoms also predicted use, implying that some use may be motivated by needs that have not been met by conventional services.