HIV-related knowledge and risk behaviors among transgender individuals in Dhaka, Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among transgender individuals in Bangladesh stands at 1%, with a slightly lower rate of 0.9% observed specifically in Dhaka city. Given their status as a minority group, the limited understanding of HIV among transgender individuals poses a significant public health concern. Consequently, the study aims to investigate the HIV-related knowledge and risk behaviors prevalent among transgender individuals in Dhaka city. This cross-sectional study included 135 transgender individuals sourced from a drop-in-center (DIC) and three selected Hijra Pollis in Dhaka. Data collection employed a semi-structured questionnaire featuring a Likert scale designed to collect data on HIV-related knowledge. The majority of participants identified as professional sex workers, with 54.10% reporting irregular sexual clients, and 48.90% involved in sex work for more than 10 years. Despite more than half (57%) exhibiting robust HIV-related knowledge, only one-third (37.30%) reported sporadic use of barrier methods, and slightly more than half (58%) demonstrated awareness of HIV symptoms. A notable discrepancy in HIV-related knowledge was discerned between transgender individuals from the DIC and their counterparts from the Hijra Pollis (t [95% confidence interval] = 0.168 [0.1001 – 0.236], p < 0.001). In conclusion, despite the provision of healthcare services at the DIC, there persists a pressing need to address current risk behaviors and enhance sex education related to HIV awareness to mitigate associated hazards.