For Female Sex Workers Research Articles

Costs and cost drivers of comprehensive sexual reproductive health services to female sex workers in Kenya

BackgroundComprehensive sexual reproductive health (SRH) programs for female sex workers (FSW) offering clinical, behavioural, and structural interventions have contributed to declining rates of HIV in this population. However, data on costs and cost drivers is needed to support programs and their donors to better allocate resources, make an investment case for continued funding, and to identify areas of improvement in program design and implementation. We aimed to estimate the annual per-FSW costs of comprehensive services for a standalone FSW program in Kenya.MethodsWe implemented a top–bottom and activity-based costing study of comprehensive FSW services at two drop-in centres (DICs), Mtwapa and Kilifi town, in Kilifi County, Kenya. Service costs were obtained from routinely collected patient data during FSW scheduled and unscheduled visits using Kenyan Ministry of Health records. Costing data were from the program and organization’s expenditure reports, cross checked against bank documents and supported by information from in-depth interviews. Data were collected retrospectively for the fiscal year 2019. We obtained approval from the AMREF Research Ethics Committee (AMREF-ESRC P862/2020).ResultsIn 2019, the unit cost of comprehensive services was 105.93 USD per FSW per year, roughly equivalent to 10,593 Kenya shillings. Costs were higher at Mtwapa DICs compared to Kilifi town DIC; 121.90 USD and 89.90 USD respectively. HIV counselling and testing cost 63.90 USD per person, PrEP was 34.20 USD and family planning was 9.93 USD. Of the total costs, staff salaries accounted for about 60%. Adjusted for inflation, costs in 2024 would be approximately 146.60.ConclusionPrograms should strive to maximize the number of FSW served to benefit from economies of scale. Given that personnel costs contribute most to the unit costs, programs should consider alternative designs which reduce personnel and other costs.

PERAN EDUKASI KEAGAMAAN DALAM MEMBENTUK KEPRIBADIAN WANITA PENJAJA SEKS DI INDONESIA

This research aims to describe and analyze the role of Islamic religious education conducted by religious counselors in shaping the personalities of female sex workers in Kediri Regency. The classic problem of prostitution persists without a solution. Islamic religious counselors in Kediri Regency attempt to provide a solution through religious education for female sex workers (FSWs). This study is based on the social control theory, employing a qualitative phenomenological approach. Data collection methods include observation and interviews, with phenomenological data analysis. The research involves Islamic religious counselors and female sex workers in Kediri Regency. The findings of this study conclude that: First, Islamic religious counselors conduct religious education for female sex workers by establishing Islamic boarding schools in the midst of red-light districts; Second, the implementation of religious education utilizes methods, materials, and strategies tailored to the needs of FSWs; Third, religious education transforms the personalities of female sex workers, leading them back to the right path, fostering a more religious lifestyle, and transitioning to different professions.

Mobility paradoxes: disruptors, benefits, and agency among mobile female sex workers living with HIV in the Dominican Republic and Tanzania

Background Mobility is a key social determinant of health for female sex workers (FSWs). While extant research has focused on the adverse effects of mobility for FSWs, there are very few studies that have examined the multiple ways in which mobility may impact the lives of these mobile women from their perspective. This qualitative study aims to fill this gap by exploring how mobility impacts the lives, livelihoods, and HIV care and treatment from the perspectives of women living with HIV in two epidemic settings, the Dominican Republic and Tanzania.Methods We conducted two rounds of in-depth interviews with 12 Dominican women and 12 Tanzanian women who were 18 years plus, had an HIV-positive diagnosis, and reported having exchanged sex for money in the last month. We utilized thematic analysis with a focus on intra- and intercomparisons to observe patterns within and across the two contexts.ResultsWe identified a salient pattern of three thematic “mobility paradoxes,” which related to both disruptors and benefits of sex work mobility: (1) uncertainty versus autonomy: while sex work mobility often took place in contexts of vulnerability, which often led to women experiencing violence, it simultaneously benefitted women by allowing them to choose where they stayed and make plans on their terms; (2) financial insecurity versus profitability: although participants sometimes made less money than expected when they traveled for sex work, there was a powerful economic benefit for mobile women as it increased their likelihood of profitability; and (3) disorder and interruptions versus strategy and social support in HIV care and treatment: participants reported that they were sometimes inconsistent with their HIV appointments and medications when they traveled for sex work. On the other hand, mobility contributed to participants often becoming more strategic and creative in their HIV care and treatment and relying on one another for support.ConclusionsFindings indicate that sex work mobility is a nuanced, complex, and paradoxical phenomenon. Implications include the development of strengths-based and community empowerment mobile health initiatives tailored to mitigate disruptors of mobility while maximizing benefits for this population.

Geographical associations of HIV prevalence in female sex workers from Nairobi, Kenya (2014-2017).

Kenya's HIV epidemic is heterogeneously distributed. Although HIV incidence in Kenya has shown signs of recent decline, focused interventions are still needed for female sex workers (FSWs). Geo-spatially-informed approaches have been advocated for targeted HIV prevention. We quantified heterogeneity in HIV burden in Nairobi-based FSWs by place of origin within Kenya, and hotspots and residence within Nairobi. Data were collected as part of enrolment in the Sex Workers Outreach Program (SWOP) in Nairobi between 2014 to 2017. Prevalence ratios (PRs) were used to quantify the risk of HIV by high prevalence counties (HPC) using modified Poisson regression analyses. Crude and fully adjusted models were fitted to the data. In heterogeneity analyses, hotspots and residences were aggregated to the Nairobi constituency level (n=17). Inequality in the geographic distribution of HIV prevalence was measured using the Gini coefficient. A total of 11,899 FSWs were included. Overall HIV prevalence was 16%. FSWs originating from HPC were at 2-fold increased risk of living with HIV in adjusted analysis (PR 1.95, 95% CI: 1.76-2.17). HIV prevalence was also highly heterogeneous by hotspot, ranging from 7% to 52% by hotspot (Gini coefficient: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.23-0.50). In contrast, constituency of residence had a Gini coefficient of 0.08 (95% CI: 0.06-0.10), suggesting minimal heterogeneity by residence. HIV prevalence in FSW is heterogeneous by place of work within Nairobi, and by county of birth within Kenya. As HIV incidence declines and financial commitments flatline, tailoring interventions to FSWs at highest HIV risk becomes increasingly important.

Longitudinal study of pregnancy intention and its association with pregnancy occurrence among female sex workers in Benin and Mali

BackgroundThe intention of becoming pregnant has an evident impact on the prenatal and postnatal period. For female sex workers (FSWs) in West Africa, among whom pregnancies are frequent as are HIV and sexually transmitted infections, a better understanding of their pregnancy intention and its influence on pregnancy occurrence could help prevent unwanted pregnancies and adverse effects on wanted pregnancies.MethodsWe recruited 330 FSWs in Benin and 322 in Mali and followed them for 12 months. We evaluated their pregnancy intention at recruitment and 6-month follow-up, using a multidimensional prospective measure that we developed. We assessed pregnancy occurrence with a pregnancy test and a retrospective questionnaire at 6 and 12 months. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to estimate the association between intention and pregnancy. We carried out an analysis to take losses to follow-up into account using the inverse of probability of censoring weights and a cluster analysis to corroborate that the multidimensional measure of pregnancy intention fitted the data.Results407 FSWs were included in the first 6-month analysis and 284 at 12 months. Mean age was 30.9 years. The pregnancy intention distribution was similar between the two periods: 15.2% in the first period and 16.3% in the second had a positive intention. One out of four were ambivalent and almost 60% (57.7% and 56.3%) had a negative intention. For 38.2% of the FSWs, the intention changed between the two periods. The global incidence rate (to first event) was 19.1 pregnancies per 100 person-years. There was a borderline significant trend (p = 0.0529) of decreased pregnancy incidence with decreasing intention. Compared to positive intention, the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for ambivalent and negative intentions were 0.71 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.32–1.60] and 0.46 (95% CI 0.21–1.01), respectively.ConclusionThe level of pregnancy intention influences its occurrence among FSWs and nearly one out of six wants a baby despite working in the sex trade. Programmatically, early identification of these women could facilitate provision of quality antenatal and postnatal care. Given other health risks associated with sex work this care may decrease potential risks of adverse maternal, fetal and neonatal outcomes.

Enrollment and retention of female sex workers in HIV care in health facilities in Mbarara city.

Sex work is a global driver of the HIV epidemic, and the risk of acquiring HIV is 13 times higher for female sex workers (FSWs) compared to the general population. The enrollment and retention of FSWs in HIV care is a challenge and has been a major contributing factor to increased new HIV infections. We conducted a qualitative study among 30 FSWs and 21 healthcare workers (HCWs) working in antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinics at the selected three primary health facilities in Mbarara City, Southwestern Uganda. The study participants were enrolled by both purposive and snowball sampling techniques. We obtained informed consent from all the participants, and data were collected using in-depth interviews and thematically analyzed. Three themes emerged as facilitators toward enrollment and retention of FSWs into HIV care, namely, (1) good health living, (2) receptive HCWs and availability of health services, and (3) community outreach services and peer support. The barriers are summarized into four major themes: (1) stigma, community discrimination, and beliefs; (2) social obstacles; (3) adverse effects of ART; and (4) inadequate services at the health facilities. FSWs are challenged by unsupportive environments and communities where they live and work, which hinders their enrollment and retention in HIV care. Creating awareness of the utilization of HIV care services and extending such services to hotspot communities could enhance the response of HIV-positive FSWs to ART.

Seroprevalence of Human Papillomavirus Infection among Female Sex Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Southern India

Introduction: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are generally acquired through sexual contact, and the risk is very high for Female Sex Workers (FSWs). The most common STI in FSWs is Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Majority of the HPV infection is asymptomatic, while a minority of the infection is responsible for causing cervical cancer. High-Risk HPV (HR-HPV) serotypes, HPV 16 and HPV 18, are known to cause cervical cancer. Aim: To determine the seroprevalence of HPV infection among FSWs attending STD clinic at a tertiary care hospital in Southern India. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was done during the period between September 2015 and August 2016 in a total of 65 FSWs in Govt. Stanley Medical College, a tertiary care hospital in Chennai, Southern India. The serum was separated after 5 mL of blood was drawn to test for the presence of HPV 16 and 18, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and syphilis. Endocervical and vaginal swab specimens were taken to look for the presence of other STIs. Necessary socio-demographic and clinical information such as mode of sex, any sexual exposure, extramarital or premarital, protected sex or not, history of associated STIs, and any history of blood transfusion, i.v. drug abuse, or surgery was also obtained. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 20.0 software. Probability value (p-value) <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Analysis of the blood samples showed that four samples were found positive for HPV infection, while two samples each were positive for HIV and syphilis. Analysis of the swab specimens showed the presence of other associated STIs in 20 samples. Among the four HPV positive samples, three were found positive for HPV 16, and one was positive for HPV 18. Risk factors such as age, marital status, HIV, and syphilis had a very strong association with HPV infection (p-value<0.01). Conclusion: The prevalence of HR-HPV serotype HPV 16 was higher than HPV 18. Hence, education about STIs, safer sexual practices, and HPV vaccination are essential in this population in order to prevent the transmission of infection to the general population.

High burden of self-reported sexually transmitted infections among female sex workers in Togo in 2021.

BackgroundSexually Transmitted Infections (STI) remain a public health challenge, especially for Female Sex Workers (FSW) who are particularly vulnerable. In sub-Saharan Africa where the overlapping epidemics of STI and HIV are concentrated among key populations, epidemiological data are needed in order to better understand STI trends in this population. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of self-reported STI symptoms and their risk factors among FSW in Togo in 2021.MethodsA cross-sectional study was completed in June and July 2021 among FSW in two cities of Togo: in Lomé (capital city, south of Togo) and in Kara (north of Togo). A snowball sampling method was used and after consent, a standardized questionnaire was administered by trained research staff to collect information on STI. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with self-reported STI.ResultsA total of 447 FSW, 300 in Lomé and 147 in Kara participated in this study. Median age was 30 [IQR: 24–38] and STI symptoms in the previous 12 months were reported by 191 FSW [42.7%, 95% CI: (38.1–47.5)], among whom 116 (60.7%) sought medical care. The most common reported symptoms were abnormal vaginal discharge (n = 78; 67.2%) and vaginal itching (n = 68; 58.6%). Current STI symptoms (at the time of the survey) were reported by 88 FSW (19.7%). In multivariable logistic regression, self-reported STI symptoms in the previous 12 months was negatively associated with living in the Lomé and older age and positively associated with having more than 15 clients in the previous week and being victim of violence.ConclusionsFindings from this study reveal that the self-reported STI burden is relatively high among FSW Togo. Additional strategies are needed at the structural, medical, political and social levels to curb this trend and effectively aim at the elimination of STI epidemics by the year 2030.

Use of Services among Female Sex Workers Receiving a Comprehensive HIV Enhanced Prevention Intervention in Kampala, Uganda: A Cross-sectional Study.

We estimated the prevalence and factors associated with the use of a dedicated HIV prevention, care, and treatment service for female sex workers (FSWs) in Kampala, Uganda. Between October 2017 to January 2018, we conducted a cross-sectional study among FSWs at a dedicated clinic. We defined use as the use of the HIV prevention, care, and treatment services by FSWs at least once within the past six months. We used the log-binomial model to determine the factors associated with use of clinic services. Eight hundred and seventy-four women were included in the analysis. The overall prevalence of use of clinic services was 81%. At adjusted analysis, use of clinic services was independently associated with being HIV positive and being treated for STIs in the past three months. The prevalence of use of clinic services was high. Dedicated services for FSWs are required to support their use of HIV and STI care.

"Whatever is in the ARVs, is Also in the PrEP" Challenges Associated With Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Use Among Female Sex Workers in South Africa.

BackgroundThe national policy on oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for female sex workers (FSWs) was instituted in South Africa in 2016. FSWs were targeted for PrEP due to a Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence of 57.7%, which is higher than the prevalence of 19.07% among the general population. Research from demonstration studies has shown that uptake of PrEP has been slower than anticipated, and the purpose of this study was to explore barriers to the uptake of PrEP among FSWs.MethodsAn in-depth qualitative study was conducted with 39 participants, 30 individual participants, and nine focus group participants. Eleven participants consisted of peer educators and two health workers from a sex work and PrEP distribution organization, the rest of the participants (1) were FSWs.ResultsThe majority of participants mentioned that little distinction was made between PrEP and antiretrovirals (ARVs) taken by FSWs living with HIV. PrEP was not distributed through public health care facilities, and health workers unknowingly labeled PrEP as ARVs. Consequently, health workers seen as experts created suspicion and contributed to the mistrust of PrEP among FSWs due to mixed messages, and equating PrEP to ARVs reduced uptake. Furthermore, failure to make a clear distinction between oral PrEP and ARVs resulted in accusations of lying, denialism, and deception leveled at users of PrEP by FSWs using ARVs, and sometimes by clients and intimate partners. FSWs using PrEP reported feeling stigmatized and thrust into interpersonal conflict with their peers after choosing PrEP, leading to broken relationships, and some resorting to taking PrEP privately or discontinuing PrEP altogether.ConclusionPre-exposure prophylaxis as an ARV targeted for the prevention of HIV among high-risk groups was found to be stigmatizing. The distinctive use of PrEP and ARVs should be correctly explained to users to minimize confusion, enable differentiation and reduce interpersonal conflict. Cohesion among sex work organizations and public health care facilities is needed to disseminate the correct knowledge on PrEP. A non-stigmatizing approach to the distribution of PrEP may serve to increase uptake and adherence.

\u201cMy condition is my secret\u201d: perspectives of HIV positive female sex workers on differentiated service delivery models in Kampala Uganda

BackgroundDifferentiated service delivery (DSD) models for female sex workers (FSWs) continue to be scaled up with the goal of expanding access to HIV services and treatment continuity. However, little is known about FSWs’ perspectives on their preferences, facilitators, and barriers to the effective utilization of various DSD models.MethodsWe conducted 24 in-depth interviews among FSWs on antiretroviral therapy for at least one year in two drop-in centres and two public health facilities in Kampala, Uganda in January 2021.ResultsThe facility-based individual management model was most preferred, due to a wide array of comprehensive health services, privacy, and professional health workers. Community DSD models were physically accessible, but least preferred due to stigmatization and discrimination, lack of privacy and confidentiality, and limited health services offered.ConclusionTargeted strategies to reduce stigma and discrimination and the provision of high-quality services have potential to optimise FSWs’ access to HIV services.

Factors associated with the uptake of long-acting reversible contraception among female sex workers in post-conflict Northern Uganda: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundLong-acting reversible contraception (LARC) is the most effective and reliable contraception option for female sex workers (FSWs) who desire future fertility. Unlike the other reversible contraceptive methods, LARC use requires only periodic users’ involvement at the time of application and re-application. However, only a few studies on LARC uptake among FSWs are available in Uganda. To fill this knowledge gap, we examined factors associated with the uptake of LARC among FSWs in post-conflict Northern Uganda.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study among adult FSWs operating in the post-conflict Gulu district in Northern Uganda. We collected quantitative data among 280 FSWs of reproductive ages (18–49 years) who were neither pregnant nor using permanent contraception. We utilized a pretested semi-structured questionnaire to gather information from each participant through face-to-face interviews. We collected data on socio-demographic characteristics, sex work-related characteristics, obstetric history, HIV status, and LARC uptake. Data were then entered into EPI INFO 7, cleaned, and analyzed using multivariable Poisson regression in STATA 14.0 to obtained adjusted prevalence ratios (PR).ResultsAmong the study participants: the mean age (SD, range) was 26.5 (5.9, 18–45) years, 48.6% reported at least one unintended pregnancy during sex work, and 37.4% had at least one induced abortion. Meanwhile, only less than two in three (58.6%) participants were using LARC. At multivariable level, factors that remained independently associated with LARC uptake included: longer duration of sex work (adjusted PR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.03–2.02), higher parity (adjusted PR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.02–1.26), history of unintended pregnancies during sex work (adjusted PR = 1.24 CI: 1.01–1.51), and being a brothel/lodge-based FSWs (adjusted PR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.01–1.63).ConclusionsThe above findings revealed a gap in the uptake of LARC among FSWs in post-conflict Northern Uganda influenced by duration of sex work, parity, unintended pregnancies during sex work, and place of sex work. Interventions to improve LARC uptake should target the newly recruited FSWs with low parity and the non-brothel/lodge-based FSWs.

Early observations from the HIV self-testing program among key populations and sexual partners of pregnant mothers in Kampala, Uganda: A cross sectional study.

HIV self-testing (HIVST) was adopted for key populations (KPs) and sexual partners of pregnant and lactating women (mothers) in Uganda in October 2018. We report early observations during HIVST implementation in Kampala, Uganda. HIVST was rolled out to reach those with unknown HIV status at 38 public health facilities, using peer-to-peer community-based distribution for female sex workers (FSW) and men who have sex with men (MSM) and secondary distribution for mothers, who gave HIVST kits to their partners. Self-testers were asked to report results within 2 days; those who did not report received a follow-up phone call from a trained health worker. Those with HIV-positive results were offered confirmatory testing at the facility using the standard HIV-testing algorithm. Data on kits distributed, testing yield, and linkage to care were analysed. We distributed 9,378 HIVST kits. Mothers received 5,212 (56%) for their sexual partners while KPs received 4,166 (44%) (MSM, 2192 [53%]; FSW1, 974, [47%]). Of all kits distributed, 252 (3%) individuals had HIV-positive results; 126 (6.5%) FSW, 52 (2.3%) MSM and 74 (1.4%) partners of mothers. Out of 252 individuals who had HIV-positive results, 170 (67%) were confirmed HIV-positive; 36 (2%) were partners of mothers, 99 (58%) were FSW, and 35 (21%) were MSM. Linkage to treatment (126) was 74%. HIVST efficiently reached, tested, identified and modestly linked to care HIV positive FSW, MSM, and partners of mothers. However, further barriers to confirmatory testing and linkage to care for HIV-positive self-testers remain unexplored.

Increasing Testing Options for Key Populations in Burundi Through Peer-Assisted HIV Self-Testing: Descriptive Analysis of Routine Programmatic Data

BackgroundIn Burundi, given the low testing numbers among key populations (KPs), peer-assisted HIV self-testing (HIVST) was initiated for female sex workers (FSWs), men who have sex with men (MSM), and transgender people to provide another testing option. HIVST was provided by existing peer outreach workers who were trained to provide support before, during, and after the administration of the test. People who screened reactive were referred and actively linked to confirmatory testing, and those confirmed positive were linked to treatment. Standard testing included HIV testing by clinical staff either at mobile clinics in the community or in facilities.ObjectiveThis study aims to improve access to HIV testing for underserved KPs, improve diagnoses of HIV serostatus among key populations, and link those who were confirmed HIV positive to life-saving treatment for epidemic control.MethodsA descriptive analysis was conducted using routine programmatic data that were collected during a 9-month implementation period (June 2018 to March 2019) for peer-assisted HIVST among FSWs, MSM, and transgender people in 6 provinces where the US Agency for International Development–and US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief–funded LINKAGES (Linkage across the Continuum of HIV Services for KP Affected by HIV) Burundi project was being implemented. Chi-square tests were used to compare case-finding rates among individuals who were tested through HIVST versus standard testing. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess factors that were independently associated with HIV seropositivity among FSWs and MSM who used HIVST kits.ResultsA total of 2198 HIVST kits were administered (FSWs: 1791/2198, 81.48%; MSM: 363/2198, 16.52%; transgender people: 44/2198, 2%). HIV seropositivity rates from HIVST were significantly higher than those from standard testing for FSWs and MEM and nonsignificantly higher than those from standard testing for transgender people (FSWs: 257/1791, 14.35% vs 890/9609, 9.26%; P<.001; MSM: 47/363, 12.95% vs 90/2431, 3.7%; P<.001; transgender people: 10/44, 23% vs 6/36, 17%; P=.50). Antiretroviral therapy initiation rates were significantly lower among MSM who were confirmed to be HIV positive through HIVST compared to those among MSM who were confirmed to be HIV positive through standard testing (40/47, 85% vs 89/90, 99%; P<.001). No significant differences in antiretroviral therapy initiation rates were found between the FSW and transgender groups. Multivariable analyses among FSWs who used HIVST kits showed that being aged ≥25 years (adjusted odds ratio 1.9, 95% CI 1.4-2.6) and having >8 clients per week (adjusted odds ratio 1.3, 95% CI 1.0-1.8) were independently associated with HIV seropositivity.ConclusionsThe results demonstrate the potential effectiveness of HIVST in newly diagnosing underserved KPs and linking them to treatment.

Stigma, Social Support, and Sexual Behavior Among Female Sex Workers at Risk for HIV in Malawi.

Lack of social support and sex work stigma may hinder STI/HIV prevention for female sex workers (FSW). We explored the associations between sex work stigma and social support with sexual behaviors in Malawi. In 2017, 150 HIV-negative, venue-based FSW completed a behavioral survey containing sex work stigma items and social support. Linear binomial regression models were used to estimate prevalence differences of inconsistent condom use and substance use before sex by social support and stigma. A majority (93%) reported sex work-related internalized stigma. About 50% reported family or friend isolation. Social support was high (mean index: 86.53). Inconsistent condom use and substance use before sex had little to no association with stigma and social support. Malawian FSW largely internalize stigma and experience isolation from family and friends yet have high levels of social support. Large-scale evaluations should investigate the role of stigma and social support in STI/HIV prevention for FSW.

Study on the demand of social organizations working for female sex workers regarding project management and capacity building of HIV prevention and treatment

Objective: To understand the capacity building needs on social organizations providing HIV prevention and treatment services for female sex workers (FSW). Methods: Questionnaires and interview were conducted with the heads of social organizations participating in China AIDS Fund for Non-Governmental Organizations (CAFNGO) project 2017-2018. Data from the CAFNGO's information system were compiled and analyzed using Excel 2016 and SPSS 25.0 software. The distribution of social organizations, availability of funds, and social organizations' needs for capacity building were analyzed. Results: Nationwide, 184 social organizations were involved in project '2017-2018 CAFNGO's FSW field work'. Out of which, 156 answers were valid. Social organizations that participated in the implementation of fund projects were mainly concentrated in the western region, accounting for 44.0% (81/184), with Sichuan, Guangxi, and Yunnan being the majority. However, the eastern part received the most financial support. Social organizations expressed the highest demand for project data collection and analysis, accounting for 68.6% (107/156). Items on risk analysis, response, and quality control project ranked the second, accounting for 64.1% (100/156). Results showed that statistically significant differences were seen on capacity building needs among social organization leaders with different levels of training on management of planning and finance of the project (χ2=5.78,P=0.016;χ2=8.99,P=0.003). Conclusions: Currently, the number of social organizations and the related fund provision concerning HIV prevention and control among FSWs were not consistent in China. Thus, it is necessary to encourage, guide, and support the development of social organizations and satisfy social organizations' needs on capacity-building and planning.

Induced abortion and associated factors among female sex workers in Iran

Objectives Induced abortion is an occupational hazard for female sex workers (FSWs). This study aimed to examine the prevalence and factors associated with induced abortion among FSWs in Iran. Methods 1337 FSWs aged ≥18 years who reported selling sex to more than one male client in the past 12 months were recruited in 13 major cities in Iran between January and August 2015. Bivariable and multivariable modified Poisson regression models were constructed to examine the correlates of induced abortion. Adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported. Results Lifetime induced abortion was reported by 621 of 1335 participants (46.5%; 95% CI 43.8, 49.2). Older age (APR for ≥ 35 vs. < 25 years, 1.46; 95% CI: 1.03, 2.07), having ever been married (APR 1.58; 95% CI 1.05, 2.39), having ever worked in a brothel (APR 1.19; 95% CI 1.02, 1.38) and a lifetime history of being raped (APR 1.19; 95% CI 1.03, 1.38) were significantly associated with lifetime induced abortion (all p < 0.05). Conclusion The high prevalence of induced abortion among FSWs in Iran is concerning. Evidence-informed programmes targeting FSWs in Iran would improve their knowledge and encourage contraceptive use as well as promote pregnancy prevention and post-abortion care.

Development of a composite indicator to prioritize districts for implementation of human immunodeficiency virus programmes in Maharashtra, India.

A key recommendation of the National AIDS Control Programme-IV of India was to develop new strategies for geo-prioritization of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. We conducted this study to categorize the districts in Maharashtra (India) based on a multidimensional framework for geo-prioritization of services. Programmatic data on trends of HIV prevalence, coverage of marginalized populations and vulnerability factors were included. A composite indicator based on these was developed, and the cumulative score was calculated for each district. HIV prevalence among general population has declined steadily from 0.60% in 2007 to 0.33% in 2017. The programme coverage was stable but inadequate for men who have sex with men (MSM). The coverage for female sex workers (FSWs) was inadequate and reduced over time. Nine districts were categorized as high priority, 13 as moderate priority and 11 were classified as low-priority districts based on burden and vulnerability for HIV. The high-priority districts were Pune, Solapur and Yavatmal for FSW interventions and Pune, Thane and Latur for MSM interventions. This multidimensional indicator is based on existing programmatic data, dynamic and can be made state-specific. It is useful to categorize and prioritize districts for allocation of resources and geo-prioritization of services in resource limited settings.

Prevalence and incidence of HIV among female sex workers and their clients: modelling the potential effects of intervention in Rwanda

BackgroundRwanda has identified several targeted HIV prevention strategies, such as promotion of condom use and provision of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for female sex workers (FSWs). Given...

Community-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) delivery for female sex workers in Tanzania: intervention model and baseline findings

ABSTRACTTo increase linkage to and retention in antiretroviral therapy (ART) care, we piloted a community-based, ART service delivery intervention for female sex workers (FSWs). At baseline, we recruited and collected data from 617 FSWs (intervention: 309; comparison: 308) who were HIV positive and not on ART. This paper presents (1) the description of the intervention model, and (2) key descriptive and bivariate-level findings of the baseline FSW cohort. The data showed more than half of FSWs had a non-paying sex partner, and less than one-third used a condom at last sex with paying and non-paying clients, which suggest potentially high levels of HIV transmission. In addition, there is a gap in HIV testing and treatment because one-third learned about their HIV-positive status only at study enrollment, and among FSWs who had known their status for more than a month, half had not registered in care. This substantiates the importance of timely HIV diagnosis and treatment. A community-based ART program may serve as an important strategy in closing the HIV care and treatment gap for FSWs.