Exploring Health Belief Model Constructs as Predictors of HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) Utilization in Nigeria: A Study in Lagos State

HIV counselling and testing (HCT) is a key entry point for HIV prevention, treatment, and care. This study examined the determinants of HCT utilization among adults in Lagos State, Nigeria, using the Health Belief Model (HBM). A cross-sectional survey of 768 adults was conducted, and the hypothesized relationships were analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings showed that perceived susceptibility to HIV infection significantly and positively predicted HCT utilization (β = 0.281, p < .001). Perceived benefits of HCT also had a strong positive effect on service uptake (β = 0.465, p < .001), whereas perceived barriers significantly reduced HCT utilization (β = −0.358, p < .001). The results indicate that concerns such as stigma, fear of disclosure, and limited access remain major obstacles to HIV testing. These findings highlight the importance of interventions that increase individuals’ perception of HIV risk, strengthen awareness of the benefits of HCT, and address structural and psychosocial barriers to testing. Implementing such evidence-based strategies could improve HCT uptake, facilitate early diagnosis and linkage to care, and contribute to achieving HIV control targets and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to good health and well-being and reduced inequalities in Nigeria.