Personal network, recruitment pattern and network characteristics of female sex workers in a high HIV prevalent state of India

Abstract

Personal network characteristics have an important role in assessing the hard-to-reach population. The purpose of the study was to assess the network characteristic, recruitment pattern and the association between personal networks with other cofactors of female sex workers (FSWs) in Nagaland, India. Four hundred and seventeen FSWs were recruited through Respondent Driven Sampling in Dimapur, Nagaland using seven seeds. Transition probability matrices and homophily indices were used to describe the network characteristics and network pattern of FSWs. Respondent Driven Sampling weighted logistic regression model was performed to observed the association. Mean personal network size of FSWs was 6.8. Heterophily was present for age at first sexual debut, duration of sex work, client volume per weeks, and personal network size. Being >30 years of age, having ≥10 years of engagement in sex work, being hotel/lodge entertainer, having more client were found significantly associated with an increased likelihood of personal network size. Higher personal network size was also found significantly associated with ever illicit drug used practices. The personal network sized and the existence of the affiliation between recruiters and recruitees may help to spread peer-driven intervention among FSWs in the region. Further, research is required on the social networks of FSWs for a better understanding of their personal network, network pattern, and high-risk behaviors in all aspects to build a better foundation for behavioral intervention.