HIV tests surge after Sheen revelation

THE revelation by actor Charlie Sheen that he is HIV-positive has sparked record levels of interest in testing for the disease.

Internet searches and sales of home screening kits both soared after the Hollywood star’s confession in 2015.

Researchers said the effect on awareness of the disease was ‘astonishing’.

A US study collected information on sales of testing kits and on internet queries based on Google data.

It found Sheen’s revelation led to millions of online searches for HIV prevention and testing, even though neither the actor nor public health leaders called for such action at the time.

The week that the Two and a Half Men actor revealed his diagnosis, sales of testing kit OraQuick doubled.

Dr Benjamin Althouse, co-author of the San Diego State University study, said: ‘In absolute terms, it’s hard to appreciate the magnitude of Sheen’s disclosure.

However, when we compared Sheen’s disclosure to other traditional awareness campaigns the “Charlie Sheen effect” is astonishing.’

Eric Leas, co-author of the study published in the journal Prevention Science, said: ‘It is easy to imagine that a single individual, like Sheen, disclosing his HIV status may be more compelling and motivating for people than an unnamed mass of individuals or a lecture from public health leaders.’