European Testing Week decides what can no longer wait: your health

While the country reflects on its collective future, European Testing Week invites each person to reflect on their own. Knowing your HIV, hepatitis B and C and syphilis status is a simple step that can change lives - including yours.

From May 19 to 26, more than 23 organizations are joining forces across the country, offering more than 60 free, fast and confidential screening points. An opportunity to make informed choices, take care of your health and protect those you love the most.

European Testing Week is an initiative promoted by EuroTEST, which mobilizes organizations across Europe to reinforce the importance of early diagnosis of HIV, hepatitis B and C and syphilis. Held twice a year, in May and November, this campaign aims to bring people closer to health services by encouraging free, fast and confidential access to screening, as an essential step towards improving individual and collective health across the European region.

GAT Grupo de Ativistas em Tratamentos is the organization promoting the Community Screening Network, together with ISPUP, which brings together community-based organizations working in Portugal to prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). The 19 organizations of the Screening Network, as well as other civil society entities, join forces every May and November to promote European Testing Week in Portugal.

Why you should test yourself?

• Because freedom of choice begins with knowledge;
• Because today it is possible to live well and with quality of life with HIV or hepatitis B, especially with early diagnosis;
• Because hepatitis C can be cured;
• Because knowing your HIV status is also an act of social responsibility.

Recent national data reinforces the importance of screening:

• In 2023, 924 new cases of HIV infection were reported in Portugal, with a higher diagnosis rate in the 25-29 age group;
• 58% of the new cases were diagnosed late, with a particular prevalence among heterosexual men and people aged 50 and over;
• The majority of new cases occurred in individuals born outside Portugal, although most were infected in the country.

Where to test?

This year's European HIV and Hepatitis Testing Week is taking place from the north to the south of the country, including the islands, from May 18 to 25. Throughout these days, it is possible to

• HIV screening;
• Hepatitis B Virus (HCV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) screening;
• other STI screenings, subject to availability;
• collection of preventive material, such as condoms and lubricants;
• advice and information on STIs and prevention.

The tests are free, quick and confidential. The maps with the screening locations are available for consultation and dissemination:
Map Portugal | Map Lisbon.