1
|
Rasouli MA, Zareie B, Gouya MM, Hadavandsiri F, Mahboobi M, Moradi Y, Moradi R, Moradi G. Lifetime and past-month alcohol use and related factors among female sex workers in Iran. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e3288. [PMID: 37872677 PMCID: PMC10726872 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alcohol use is more common among female sex workers (FSWs). This study assessed the prevalence of lifetime and past-month alcohol use and related factors among FSWs in Iran. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 1464 women from 8 major cities in Iran. Behavioral data were collected by trained interviewers and conducted face-to-face in a private room. Weighted analysis was used to determine the lifetime and past-month alcohol use prevalence. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to investigate the association between alcohol use and independent variables. RESULTS The most alcohol used in lifetime and past-month (weekly, less than once a week, and daily) in FSWs was 52.7% (12.25%, 12.94%, and 1.83%), respectively. In the final model, factors that were independently associated with alcohol use included the 31-40 years (AOR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.13-5.15), education level of diploma (AOR = 2.43, 95% CI: 1.31-4.51), history of lifetime drug use (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI: 2.01-3.89), history of lifetime group sex (AOR = 2.07, 95% CI: 1.41-3.03), history of intentional abortion (AOR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.06-1.92), six or more sexual clients in the last month (AOR = 3.25, 95% CI: 1.80-5.87), history of lifetime anal sex (AOR = 2.47, 95% CI: 1.82-3.35), and FSWs the married, temporarily married, and living with partner were positively associated with lifetime alcohol use. CONCLUSION Alcohol use is prevalent among FSWs in Iran. Further prevention programs are needed to address and reduce harms associated with alcohol use among this vulnerable population in Iran. Designing intervention programs, it is suggested to consider other variables affecting alcohol use in FSWs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Aziz Rasouli
- Department of Epidemiology and BiostatisticsFaculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical SciencesSanandajIran
| | - Bushra Zareie
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public HealthHamadan University of Medical SciencesHamadanIran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Gouya
- Iranian Center for Communicable Disease ControlMinistry of Health and Medical EducationTehranIran
| | - Fatemeh Hadavandsiri
- School of Public Health and SafteyShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Marzieh Mahboobi
- Iranian Center for Communicable Disease ControlMinistry of Health and Medical EducationTehranIran
| | - Yousef Moradi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health DevelopmentKurdistan University of Medical SciencesSanandajIran
| | - Rozhin Moradi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health DevelopmentKurdistan University of Medical SciencesSanandajIran
| | - Ghobad Moradi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health DevelopmentKurdistan University of Medical SciencesSanandajIran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Aghaei A, Sakhaei A, Khalilimeybodi A, Qiao S, Li X. Impact of Mass Media on HIV/AIDS Stigma Reduction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3414-3429. [PMID: 37046030 PMCID: PMC10096105 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04057-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
HIV-related stigma is a major barrier to HIV testing and care engagement. Despite efforts to use mass media to address HIV-related stigma, their impact on reducing HIV-related stigma remains unclear. Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of peer-reviewed publications quantitatively examining the impact of mass media exposure on HIV-related stigma reduction and published from January 1990 to December 2020. Of 388 articles found in the initial screening from scientific databases, 19 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. Sixteen articles reported the quantitative effect of mass media exposure on HIV-related stigma and were included in the meta-analysis. Systematic review results showed considerable heterogeneity in studied populations with a few interventions and longitudinal studies. Results suggested a higher interest in utilizing mass media by health policymakers in developing countries with greater HIV prevalence to reduce HIV-related stigma. Meta-analysis results showed a modest impact of mass media use on HIV-related stigma reduction. Despite heterogeneity in the impact of mass media on HIV-related stigma, Egger's regression test and funnel graph indicated no evidence for publication bias. Results demonstrated an increase in the impact of mass media on reducing HIV-related stigma over time and no correlation between the HIV prevalence in countries and the impact of mass media. In summary, mass media exposure has a modest and context-specific impact on HIV-related stigma reduction. More large-scale mass media interventions and studies addressing the impact of mass media on different forms of stigma are required to inform policies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Aghaei
- Department of Health Promotion Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
- , 915 Greene St., Discovery I Bldg., Floor 4, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA.
| | - Ayoub Sakhaei
- Department of Sociology, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran
| | - Ali Khalilimeybodi
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Shan Qiao
- Department of Health Promotion Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Department of Health Promotion Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Beksinska A, Karlsen O, Gafos M, Beattie TS. Alcohol use and associated risk factors among female sex workers in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001216. [PMID: 37310993 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Due to its widespread use in the sex work industry, female sex workers (FSWs) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are at high risk of harmful alcohol use and associated adverse health outcomes. Factors associated with harmful alcohol use include violence, mental health problems, drug use, sexual risk behaviors and HIV/STIs. To our knowledge, there has been no quantitative synthesis of FSW alcohol use data to date. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to provide an estimate of the prevalence of harmful alcohol use among FSWs in LMICs and to examine associations with common health and social concerns. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42021237438. We searched three electronic databases for peer-reviewed, quantitative studies from inception to 24th February 2021. Studies were selected for inclusion that reported any measure of prevalence or incidence of alcohol use among FSWs aged 18 or older from countries defined as LMIC in accordance with the World Bank income groups 2019. The following study designs were included: cross-sectional survey, case-control study, cohort study, case series analysis, or experimental study with baseline measures for alcohol use. Study quality was assessed with the Center for Evidence-Based Management (CEBMa) Critical Appraisal Tool. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated for (i) any hazardous/harmful/dependent alcohol use, (ii) harmful/dependent alcohol use only, both overall and by region and (iii) daily alcohol use. Meta-analyses examined associations between harmful alcohol use and violence, condom use, HIV/STIs, mental health problems and other drug use. In total, 435 papers were identified. After screening, 99 papers reporting on 87 unique studies with 51,904 participants from 32 LMICs met the inclusion criteria. Study designs included cross-sectional (n = 89), cohort (n = 6) and experimental (n = 4). Overall, 5 scored as high quality, 79 studies scored as moderate and 15 scored as weak quality. Twenty-nine papers reporting on 22 unique studies used validated alcohol use tools including AUDIT, CAGE and WHO CIDI. The pooled prevalence of any hazardous/harmful/dependent alcohol use was 41% (95% CI: 31-51%), and of daily alcohol use was 26% (95% CI: 17-36%). There was variation in harmful alcohol use by global region (Sub-Saharan Africa: 38%; South Asia/Central Asia/ East Asia and Pacific: 47% and Latin America and the Caribbean:44%). Harmful alcohol use was significantly associated with inconsistent condom use (pooled unadjusted RR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.01-2.67), STIs (pooled unadjusted OR: 1.29; 95% CI 1.15-1.46); and other drug use (pooled unadjusted OR of 2.44; 95% CI 1.24-4.80), but not with HIV, violence or mental health problems. We found a high prevalence of problem alcohol use and daily alcohol use among FSWs in LMICs. Harmful drinking was associated with important HIV risk factors such as inconsistent condom use, STIs and other drug use. Major limitations included heterogeneity in tools and cut-off scores to measure alcohol use and other common risk factors, and a paucity of longitudinal studies. There is an urgent need for tailored interventions for FSWs in LMICs that address alcohol use as well as the associated sex work risk environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Beksinska
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oda Karlsen
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mitzy Gafos
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tara S Beattie
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Karbasi A, Fordjuoh J, Abbas M, Iloegbu C, Patena J, Adenikinju D, Vieira D, Gyamfi J, Peprah E. An Evolving HIV Epidemic in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3844. [PMID: 36900856 PMCID: PMC10001308 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20053844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is severely understudied despite the region's increase in new HIV infections since 2010. A key population that is particularly affected, due to the lack of adequate knowledge and proper interventional implementation, includes people who inject drugs (PWID). Furthermore, the paucity of HIV data (prevalence and trends) worsens an already critical situation in this region. A scoping review was conducted to address the scarcity of information and to synthesize the available data on HIV prevalence rates within the key population of PWID throughout the MENA region. Information was sourced from major public health databases and world health reports. Of the 1864 articles screened, 40 studies discussed the various factors contributing to the under-reporting of HIV data in the MENA region among PWID. High and overlapping risk behaviors were cited as the most prevalent reason why HIV trends were incomprehensible and hard to characterize among PWID, followed by lack of service utilization, lack of intervention-based programs, cultural norms, lack of advanced HIV surveillance systems, and protracted humanitarian emergencies. Overall, the lack of reported information limits any adequate response to the growing and unknown HIV trends throughout the region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arvin Karbasi
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Judy Fordjuoh
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Mentalla Abbas
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Chukwuemeka Iloegbu
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - John Patena
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Deborah Adenikinju
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Dorice Vieira
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
- NYU Health Sciences Library, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, 577 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Joyce Gyamfi
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Emmanuel Peprah
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Olfati L, Safari-Faramani R, Najafi F, Nazar MM, Shakiba E. Population size estimation of female sex workers using network scale-up method in Kermanshah city. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:268. [PMID: 36750800 PMCID: PMC9906867 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15141-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appropriate estimate of size of the female sex workers as well as the other hard-to-reach-populations plays a crucial role in reaching them with effective preventive measures. This study aimed to estimate the population size of female sex workers in Kermanshah City using the network scale-up method. METHOD In this cross-sectional study, of the 1000 pedestrians aged between 18 and 65 years, selected from the population of Kermanshah City via a multistage sampling, were recruited in the study. Face-to-face interview using a questionnaire including the number of FSWs in the social network of the respondent was used to collect the data. RESULTS The overall estimated number of female sex workers in the general population was 4848(UI 95%: 4597, 5074). Accordingly, the prevalence of FSWs among women 18 years and older in Kermanshah in 2018 was about 11.92 (UI 95%: 11.30, 12.47) in one thousand. More than half of the female sex workers in the respondent's social network were unmarried and were in the age range of 18 to 29, and had a high school or university degree. Among high-risk behaviors, a history of alcohol consumption accounted for the highest percentage. CONCLUSION The number of female sex workers estimated in this study is considerable, which highlights the importance of planning harm reduction interventions in order to alleviate the burden of HIV infection in the population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lida Olfati
- grid.412112.50000 0001 2012 5829Student Research Committee, School of Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Roya Safari-Faramani
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Health Research Centre for Environmental Determinants of Health Research Institute for Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Farid Najafi
- grid.412112.50000 0001 2012 5829Department of Epidemiology, School of Health Research Centre for Environmental Determinants of Health Research Institute for Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mehdi Moradi Nazar
- grid.412112.50000 0001 2012 5829Department of Epidemiology, School of Health Research Centre for Environmental Determinants of Health Research Institute for Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Shakiba
- grid.412112.50000 0001 2012 5829Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine Social Development and Health Promotion Research Centre Research Institute for Health Kermanshah, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
HIV prevalence and associated factors among female sex workers in Iran: a bio-behavioral survey in 2020. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:909-918. [PMID: 36097087 PMCID: PMC9466307 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03827-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Despite the overall decline in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence, it remains unacceptably high in key populations. This study aimed to estimate prevalence of HIV infection and high-risk behaviors among female sex workers (FSWs). This study was a cross-sectional survey of FSWs conducted between December 2019 and August 2020 in eight geographically diverse cities in Iran. After providing informed consent, participants completed a bio-behavioral questionnaire and after completion of the interview, rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) and dried blood spots (DBS) were collected to determine HIV and syphilis status as per national guidelines, if the women consented. All analyzes were based on RDS adjustment. Weighting was done according to Giles'SS estimator. Among the 1515 FSWs, the overall prevalence of HIV and syphilis were 1.6% (95% CI: 0.8-2.3) and zero, respectively. The highest HIV prevalence was observed in Shiraz (5.1%) and Khorramabad city (1.6%). In addition, HIV-positive FSWs had a higher mean age at first sexual contact than HIV-negative FSWs (21.4 ± 5.6 vs. 17.2 ± 4.2 years). Injection drug use and a history of arrest or incarceration were associated with an increased odds of HIV infection (OR = 6.25; 95% CI: 1.90-20.55 and OR = 4.57; 95% CI: 1.64-12.72, respectively). Based on the results, strategies to improve early HIV diagnosis, harm reduction, and use of testing and treatment strategies are needed to reduce and control HIV infections.
Collapse
|
7
|
Mehmandoost S, Sharifi H, Shokoohi M, Khezri M, Mirzazadeh A, Shahesmaeili A, Gahlekhani N, Kamali K, Haghdoost AA, Karamouzian M. Sexualized Substance Use among Female Sex Workers in Iran: Findings from a Nationwide Survey. Subst Use Misuse 2022; 58:298-305. [PMID: 36576274 PMCID: PMC10881188 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2161824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background: Female sex workers (FSWs) are at higher risk of HIV due to high-risk sexual and drug use related behaviors. This study characterized sexualized substance use among FSWs in Iran. Methods: In 2015, 1,337 FSWs were recruited from centers for vulnerable women and through outreach efforts in 13 major cities in Iran. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews from consenting FSWs on a range of socio-demographic and behavioral characteristics. The primary outcome of interest was sexualized substance use, defined as reporting alcohol or drug use before or during sex in the past month. Bivariable and multivariable modified Poisson regression models were used to assess the correlates of sexualized substance use. Adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported. Results: The prevalence of sexualized substance use was 31.3% (95% CI: 28.7, 34.0). Inconsistent condom use during sex with clients in the past month (aPR = 1.31; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.71), regular (i.e., at least weekly in the past month) alcohol use (aPR = 2.87; 95% CI: 2.17, 3.80), regular opioid use (aPR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.45, 3.02), regular stimulant use (aPR = 2.68; 95% CI: 2.12, 3.39), and self-reported HIV negative status (aPR= 1.88; 95% CI: 1.14, 3.10) were significantly and positively associated with sexualized substance use. Conclusions: Sexualized substance use was associated with riskier sexual behavior and self-reported HIV sero-negativity. Harm reduction messaging to FSWs needs to go beyond focusing on sexual health promotion and further highlight the risks associated with sexualized substance use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Armita Shahesmaeili
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Gahlekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Kianoush Kamali
- Midlife Health Office, Department of Population Health, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Centre On Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
- Brown School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Merghati Khoei E, Rezaei Z, Mohraz M, Brady KT, Killeen T, Korte JE, Bayat A, Yousefi H. Gender differences in post-traumatic stress disorder and depression among Iranian population with substance use disorder. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2022.2051624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Effat Merghati Khoei
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahed Rezaei
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Minoo Mohraz
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kathleen T. Brady
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Therese Killeen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jeffrey E. Korte
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Alireza Bayat
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Habib Yousefi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hosseini-Hooshyar S, Mirzazadeh A, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H, Khajehkazemi R, Haghdoost AA, Shokoohi M. Prevalence and Correlates of Sexual Violence Experienced by Female Sex Workers in Iran: Results from a National HIV Bio-Behavioral Surveillance Survey. Violence Against Women 2022; 28:872-889. [PMID: 34057851 PMCID: PMC8785289 DOI: 10.1177/10778012211008992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Sexual violence increases the risk of adverse health outcomes among female sex workers (FSWs). Using data from the 2015 national bio-behavioral survey, we explored the experience of sexual violence and its associated factors among Iranian FSWs. Lifetime and recent sexual violence were reported by 40.1% and 16.9%, respectively. History of substance use, ever engaging in anal sex, engaging in group sex within the last year, a high number of clients, recent unstable housing, and incarceration increased the likelihood of experiencing recent sexual violence. These findings underscore the need for community-empowerment and policy-level interventions to address violence among FSWs in Iran.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samira Hosseini-Hooshyar
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran,The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran,School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Razieh Khajehkazemi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran,Social Determinants of Health Research Centre, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada,Mostafa Shokoohi, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 3M7.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Khezri M, Shokoohi M, Mirzazadeh A, Tavakoli F, Ghalekhani N, Mousavian G, Mehmandoost S, Kazerooni PA, Haghdoost AA, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H. HIV Prevalence and Related Behaviors Among People Who Inject Drugs in Iran from 2010 to 2020. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2831-2843. [PMID: 35195820 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03627-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Injection drug use has been the leading route of HIV transmission in Iran. We assessed HIV prevalence, risk behaviors, and uptake of prevention services among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran between 2010 and 2020. We also examined the individual and environmental determinants of HIV among PWID. PWID were recruited in major cities across the country in three national bio--behavioral surveillance surveys in 2010, 2014, and 2020. Participants were tested for HIV and interviewed using a behavioral questionnaire. Between 2010 and 2020, the prevalence of HIV (15.1% to 3.5%), receptive needle sharing (25.2% to 3.9%) and unprotected sex (79.4% to 65.2%) decreased. Moreover, uptake of free needle/syringe increased (57.4% to 87.9%), while uptake of free condoms remained relatively stable across the surveys (34.3% to 32.6%). Multivariable analysis for the 2020 survey showed that a history of homelessness, incarceration, and a longer injection career significantly increased the odds of HIV seropositivity. During the past decade, HIV prevalence and drug- and sexual-related risk behaviors decreased among Iranian PWID. However, individual and structural determinants continue to drive HIV among this population. HIV prevention, diagnosis, and treatment among marginalized PWID with a history of homelessness or incarceration and those who inject drugs for a longer period, should be further prioritized in HIV care planning and resource allocation in Iran.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Ghalekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ghazal Mousavian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Phyllys K, Ziro OW, Kissinger G, Ngari M, Budambula NLM, Budambula V. Poly-drug use among female and male commercial sex workers visiting a drop in centre in Mombasa County, Kenya. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0001247. [PMID: 36962634 PMCID: PMC10045590 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between commercial sex work and drug use is complex and the two exacerbate each other. In Kenya, Mombasa County has one of the highest populations of drug users and commercial sex workers. Despite documentation of drug use among sex workers, most of the studies are based on self-reported history which is prone to social desirability and memory recall biases. It is in this context that we sought to establish actual drug use is this sub-population. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine self-reported and confirmed drug use among 224 commercial sex workers accessing services at Mvita Drop-in. Actual drug use was determined qualitatively using 6 panel plus alcohol Saliva Test kit. The overall prevalence of self-reported and confirmed current use for at least one drug was 98% and 99% respectively. Regardless of the technique used, alcohol and tobacco products were the most consumed substances. Alcohol use increased significantly with age (P = 0.03). Risk of cigarette use and testing positive for cotinine was higher among those age 18 to 35 years compared to >35years at P = 0.001 and P = 0.002 respectively. Poly-drug use was common with 98% testing positive for more than one drug. The reason for drug use was sex work related pressure (88%) with 60% of the respondents reporting they cannot transact this business without drugs. Almost every commercial sex worker is a poly-drug user. We recommend targeted interventions for commercial sex workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kemunto Phyllys
- Department of Environment and Health Sciences, Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Onesmus Wanje Ziro
- Department of Environment and Health Sciences, Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - George Kissinger
- Department of Environment and Health Sciences, Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Moses Ngari
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Public Health, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Valentine Budambula
- Department of Environment and Health Sciences, Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yoosefi Lebni J, Irandoost SF, Dehghan AA, Ziapour A, Khosravi B, Mehedi N. Exploring the reasons for women to engage in sex work in Tehran, Iran: A qualitative study. Heliyon 2021; 7:e08512. [PMID: 34926855 PMCID: PMC8649730 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e08512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sex work is a growing phenomenon triggered by a number of causes. The current study uses a qualitative method to investigate the reasons why women participate in sex work in Tehran. Methods The statistical population consisted of all female sex workers in Tehran, Iran, from which 22 individuals were chosen via snowball sampling. In-depth interviews were conducted for data gathering, and traditional content analysis was used for data analysis. Graneheim and Lundman's method was utilized to evaluate the data, and Guba and Lincoln's criteria were employed to determine the research's strength and transferability. Results The results of the data analysis were divided into five categories (or themes) and 19 subcategories. The categories were familial instability, societal pressure, consumerism, social insecurity, and a meek and inefficient personality. Conclusion Sex work may be avoided by raising women's social status, providing greater economic assistance, making society safer, particularly in workplaces, improving intra-family connections, boosting self-esteem and self-efficacy, and teaching them how to deal with life's issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javad Yoosefi Lebni
- Health Promotion Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Fahim Irandoost
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | | | - Arash Ziapour
- Social Development & Health Promotion Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Bahar Khosravi
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Nafiul Mehedi
- Department of Social Work, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Tavakoli F, Khezri M, Tam M, Bazrafshan A, Sharifi H, Shokoohi M. Injection and non-injection drug use among female sex workers in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 221:108655. [PMID: 33689969 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Illicit drug use is a prevalent risk behavior among female sex workers (FSWs) as it increases the vulnerability of this marginalized population to negative health outcomes, including HIV infection. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of injection and non-injection drug use among FSWs in Iran. METHODS Systematic searches of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycINFO (for English records), along with Iranian databases including IranMedex, Iran Psych Magiran, Scientific Information Database, and Irandoc (for Farsi records) were conducted for studies published from inception through to July 2020. We included quantitative studies on injection and non-injection drug use among FSWs. The pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of recent and lifetime drug injection and non-injection were estimated using random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS Of 458 screened records, 19 met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of recent non-injection drug use and injection drug use was 56.94% (95% CI: 44.68, 68.78) and 5.67% (95% CI: 2.09, 10.73), respectively. Opium (33.00%, 95% CI: 24.53, 42.05) and crystal methamphetamine (20.68%, 95% CI: 13.59, 28.79) were the most prevalent recent non-injection drugs used. Additionally, the pooled prevalence of lifetime non-injection drug use was 76.08% (95% CI: 66.81, 84.27) and injection drug use was 10.72% (95% CI: 7.02, 15.07). CONCLUSIONS This systematic review shows that drug use, both injection and non-injection, is prevalent among FSWs in Iran. These findings highlight the importance of evidence-based harm reduction and treatment programs to reduce the burdens of drug use and its associated potential consequences among these underserved women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Michelle Tam
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Azam Bazrafshan
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Roshanfekr P, Khezri M, Karimi SE, Vameghi M, Ali D, Ahmadi S, Ahounbar E, Mahzari K, Roshanpajouh M, Noroozi M, Shokoohi M, Mirzazadeh A. Lifetime and past-month substance use and injection among street-based female sex workers in Iran. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:33. [PMID: 33726756 PMCID: PMC7962286 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00477-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Street-based female sex workers (FSWs) are highly at risk of HIV and other harms associated with sex work. We assessed the prevalence of non-injection and injection drug use and their associated factors among street-based FSWs in Iran. METHODS We recruited 898 FSWs from 414 venues across 19 major cities in Iran between October 2016 and March 2017. Correlates of lifetime and past-month non-injection and injection drug use were assessed through multivariable logistic regression models. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. RESULTS Lifetime and past-month non-injection drug use were reported by 60.3% (95% CI 51, 84) and 47.2% (95% CI 38, 67) of FSWs, respectively. The prevalence of lifetime and past-month injection drug use were 8.6% (95% CI 6.9, 10.7) and 3.7% (95% CI 2.6, 5.2), respectively. Recent non-injection drug use was associated with divorced marital status (AOR 2.00, 95% CI 1.07, 3.74), temporary marriage (AOR 4.31 [1.79, 10.40]), had > 30 clients per month (AOR 2.76 [1.29, 5.90]), ever alcohol use (AOR 3.03 [1.92, 6.79]), and history of incarceration (AOR 7.65 [3.89, 15.30]). Similarly, lifetime injection drug use was associated with ever alcohol use (AOR 2.74 [1.20-6.20]), ever incarceration (AOR 5.06 [2.48-10.28]), and ever group sex (AOR 2.44 [1.21-4.92]). CONCLUSIONS Non-injection and injection drug use are prevalent among street-based FSWs in Iran. Further prevention programs are needed to address and reduce harms associated with drug use among this vulnerable population in Iran.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Payam Roshanfekr
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Salah Eddin Karimi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Meroe Vameghi
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Delaram Ali
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Ahmadi
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elahe Ahounbar
- Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kambiz Mahzari
- Advisor to the Committee on Aids Prevention and Control Affiliated to the Health Ministry, Expert, Prevention and Addiction Affairs Bureau State Welfare Organization (SWO), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Roshanpajouh
- Addiction Department, School of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health (Tehran Institute of Psychiatry), Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mehdi Noroozi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yoosefi lebni J, Irandoost SF, Ziapour A, Mohammadi Gharehghani MA, Ebadi Fard Azar F, Soofizad G, Khosravi B, Solhi M. Experiences and challenges of Prostitute Women in Iran: A phenomenological qualitative study. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05649. [PMID: 33319103 PMCID: PMC7724161 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Prostitutes in Iran are faced with many challenges and problems that pose risks to their health. Objective The present study is an attempt to identify and narrate the challenges and experiences of Iranian prostitutes based on a qualitative approach. Methods This qualitative study was conducted with a phenomenological approach in (2018) in Tehran, Iran. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 prostitutes who were selected using a snowball sampling method and analyzed with Colaizzi's method. In order to examine the quality of findings, Guba and Lincoln's measures were used. Results Data analysis results were classified into five main categories and 14 subcategories. The main issues are: The experience of violence, Heath risk, social ostracism, objectifying, and lack of social and legal supporting structures. Conclusion Prostitutes in Iran experience numerous problems at personal and social levels. By providing social, economic, and legal supports for them such as social services (e.g. educations on how to use contraceptives, how to have safe sexual intercourse, and free counseling services for mental support), we can improve their health and welfare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javad Yoosefi lebni
- Health Promotion Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Fahim Irandoost
- Department of Public Health, School of Health, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Arash Ziapour
- Health Education and Health Promotion, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | | | | | - Goli Soofizad
- School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahar Khosravi
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Solhi
- Health Promotion Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Khezri M, Shokoohi M, Mirzazadeh A, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H, Haghdoost A, Baral SD. Early sex work initiation and its association with condomless sex and sexually transmitted infections among female sex workers in Iran. Int J STD AIDS 2020; 31:671-679. [PMID: 32538329 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420913431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Early sex work initiation among female sex workers (FSWs) increases their vulnerabilities to high-risk sexual practices and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We examined the association of early sex work with condomless sex indicators, HIV, and other STIs, including human papillomavirus, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, syphilis, and gonorrhea, among FSWs in Iran. We recruited 1347 FSWs from 13 cities in 2015, with 1296 participants (94.2%) reporting information about their age of sex work initiation. Early sex work was defined as the initiation of selling sex before 18 years of age. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported using multivariable logistic regression. Overall, 10.1% of FSWs reported early sex work initiation. FSWs who initiated sex work earlier were more likely to report last-month inconsistent condom use (aOR = 3.31, 95% CI: 1.82, 6.02) and condomless sex with last client (aOR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.15, 2.56). There was no statistically significant association between early sex work and HIV (aOR = 1.40, 95% CI: 0.43, 4.53) and any other STIs (aOR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.69, 1.48), except for chlamydia (aOR = 2.09, 95% CI: 1.08, 4.04). These findings suggest that FSWs with early sexual debut would benefit from differentiated interventions including screening for STIs and enhanced counseling for condom use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Division of Social and Behavioural Health Sciences, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Faculty of Medicine, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - AliAkbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Key Populations Program, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Karamouzian M, Nasirian M, Ghaffari Hoseini S, Mirzazadeh A. HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Female Sex Workers in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:1923-1937. [PMID: 31701288 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01574-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Given the high burden of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among female sex workers (FSW) and their potential role in bridging HIV/STIs into the general population, estimating the prevalence of HIV/STIs among FSW is essential for future research and policy developments. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesize the available HIV/STIs data among FSW in Iran. We searched MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Iranian databases from inception through to January 2018. Inclusion criteria were original quantitative studies that measured HIV/STIs prevalence among FSW. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using random-effects meta-analyses. Out of a total of 299 screened studies, 12 were included with total study participants of 4328 FSW. Heterogeneity was present but meta-regression analyses revealed no significant association between HIV prevalence and year of publication, city, and age. Pooled HIV prevalence was 2.23% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.82, 3.64). We estimated the prevalence of other STIs as 0.77% (95% CI 0.01, 1.53) for hepatitis B, 6.18% (95% CI 1.32, 11.04) for hepatitis C, 0.33% (95% CI 0.00, 0.66) for syphilis, 1.47% (95% CI 0.22, 2.71) for gonorrhea, 9.80% (95% CI 4.70, 14.91) for chlamydia, and 6.18% (95% CI 4.92, 7.43) for trichomonas vaginalis. Based on the existing evidence, HIV and STIs prevalence among FSW are relatively low in Iran. Strategies for timely diagnosis and treatment of HIV and other STIs among FSW and their sexual and injecting partners are needed to reduce the burden of HIV/STIs among these vulnerable populations in Iran.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Maryam Nasirian
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology Department, and Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, School of Public Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Hezarjarib Blvd., Isfahan, 8174673461, Iran.
| | - Shervin Ghaffari Hoseini
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
HIV-Related Knowledge and Stigma Among the General Population in the Southeast of Iran. SHIRAZ E-MEDICAL JOURNAL 2020. [DOI: 10.5812/semj.96311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: HIV-related stigma is a barrier to effective HIV responses among people living with HIV (PLHIV). Objectives: The current study aimed at measuring HIV-related stigma, and its associated factors among the general population in the Southeast of Iran. Methods: The current cross-sectional study was conducted on a convenience sample of 900 individuals in Kerman, Southeast of Iran, from July to September 2016. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire, including (I) demographic and background characteristics; (II) HIV-related stigma; and (III) HIV-related knowledge. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 20 using descriptive statistics, as well as bivariable and multivariable linear regressions. Results: Low, moderate, and high levels of stigmatizing attitudes toward PLHIV were reported by 39.1%, 57.8%, and 3.1% of the participants, respectively. Female sex(beta = 0.33, P value = 0.01) and those not having a history of HIV testing (beta = 0.45, P value < 0.001) had, on average, higher levels of stigmatizing attitudes, while those with a higher level of education (beta = -0.97, P value < 0.001) had, on average, lower levels of stigmatizing attitudes. Conclusions: Gender-sensitive educational interventions need to be developed to reduce the negative attitude towards PLHIV in Iran.
Collapse
|
19
|
Shokoohi M, Karamouzian M, Dolan K, Sharifi H, Mirzazadeh A. Social and structural determinants of health associated with drug use patterns among female sex workers in Iran: A latent class analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 91:102798. [PMID: 32505433 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sex workers (FSWs) experience adversities regarding social determinants of health (SDH) and behavioural factors including illicit drug use. This study aimed to assess the clustered impact of SDH on illicit drug use among FSWs in Iran. METHODS We surveyed 1,347 FSWs in 13 major cities in 2015. Latent class analysis was conducted to identify distinct classes of five measured SDH including low education, unemployment, unstable housing, last-year incarceration and sexual violence. We examined the association of these classes with five illicit drug use patterns using multivariable generalized linear model with Poisson family and log link, and reported adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS We identified five SDH classes: Class 1: no SDH adversities; Class 2: mainly unemployment; Class 3: low education and unemployment; Class 4: sexual violence and unemployment; and Class 5: multiple SDH adversities. The prevalence of last-month drug use ranged from 7.0% in Class 1 to 53.3% in Class 5. Compared to FSWs in Class 1, those in Class 2 (aPR: 2.47, 95% CI: 1.15, 5.27), Class 3 (aPR: 3.69, 95% CI: 1.62, 8.36), Class 4 (aPR: 4.49, 95% CI: 1.71, 11.78) and Class 5 (aPR: 6.35, 95% CI: 2.42, 16.69) were more likely to report last-month drug use. The same patterns were observed for specific drugs of opium use, crystal methamphetamine use, and heroin-crack use, as well as poly-drug use. CONCLUSION Socio-structural determinants are clustered together and elevate the likelihood of illicit drug use among FSWs. Our findings highlighted the significance of assessing and addressing such key determinants of health in drug use harm reduction programs targeting FSWs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kate Dolan
- Program of International Research and Training, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mirzazadeh A, Shokoohi M, Karamouzian M, Ashki H, Khajehkazemi R, Salari A, Abedinzadeh N, Nadji SA, Sharifi H, Kazerooni PA, Mohraz M, Haghdoost AA. Declining trends in HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among female sex workers in Iran could be attributable to reduced drug injection: a cross-sectional study. Sex Transm Infect 2019; 96:68-75. [PMID: 31836679 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2018-053800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The HIV trend among female sex workers (FSWs) is understudied. We assessed the prevalence and trend of HIV and five other STIs among FSWs in Iran. METHODS We recruited FSWs (1337 in 2015, 1005 in 2010) from 21 sites in 13 cities in two cross-sectional biobehavioural surveys. Eligible FSWs were women aged ≥18 years who reported selling sex to more than one male client in the past 12 months. Consenting FSWs were interviewed using a behavioural questionnaire and tested for HIV and five other STIs. We considered study sites as clusters in the analysis and two-sided Fisher's exact test to compare the HIV prevalence between the two survey rounds. RESULTS HIV prevalence was 2.1% in 2015 (vs 4.0% in 2010, p=0.007). Lifetime drug injection was reported by 6.1% of participants in 2015 (vs 14.6% in 2010, p=0.003). In 2015, among FSWs with history of lifetime drug injection, HIV prevalence was 8.6% (vs 9.8% in 2010, p=0.425). The prevalence of other STIs in 2015 was 0.4% (95% CI 0.2 to 1.0) for syphilis, 1.3% (95% CI 0.8 to 2.1) for gonorrhoea, 6.0% (95% CI 4.8 to 7.4) for chlamydia, 11.9% (95% CI 8.5 to 16.5) for trichomoniasis and 41.8% (95% CI 39.2 to 44.5) for human papillomavirus. CONCLUSIONS HIV prevalence among FSWs in Iran decreased, but remains considerably high. The decrease in HIV prevalence compared with 2010 might be explained by a decrease in drug injection. Other STIs are also high in this population. Harm reduction programmes need to be continued and scaled up among this underserved population in Iran.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mirzazadeh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA .,HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Haleh Ashki
- Open Medicine Institute, Mountain View, California
| | - Razieh Khajehkazemi
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Apameh Salari
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Negin Abedinzadeh
- Iranian Research Centre for HIV/AIDS, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Alireza Nadji
- Virology Research Center, National Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Parvin Afsar Kazerooni
- HIV/AIDS Control Office, Center for Communicable Disease, Ministry of Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Minoo Mohraz
- Iranian Research Centre for HIV/AIDS, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Haghdoost
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zarghami M, Bagheri M, Bahari H, Tufani K, Mahjoub A, Daneshmand R, Alammehrjerdi Z, Mohammadian R, Massah O. Iranian Female Methadone Patients and the Perceived Educational Needs Related to Human Immunodeficiency Virus. ADDICTION & HEALTH 2019; 10:242-249. [PMID: 31263523 PMCID: PMC6593166 DOI: 10.22122/ahj.v10i4.672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Background Iranian female methadone patients are at risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) due to involvement in high-risk sexual behaviours and/or needle sharing. The present study aimed to explore the perceived educational needs related to HIV among a group of Iranian female methadone patients. Methods The research design was qualitative and the participants were sampled purposively. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 34 women and 19 clinicians in Sari, Mashhad, and Tehran, Iran. Then, qualitative content analysis was implemented. Findings The emergence of three major themes and six minor themes was revealed. Women expressed a need to increase their knowledge including women-specific pathophysiology and disease progression and the modes of the virus transmission and prevention. Women also expressed a need to enhance their knowledge and skills related to the physical management of the virus including self-care and reproductive health. Other themes included perceived psychosocial needs including removing stigma and access to resources in the community. Conclusion Women reported a wide range of educational needs from basic knowledge to advanced skills. The findings can be used in designing women-specific educational programs related to HIV in Iran. Larger studies are suggested with gender-mixed samples in the Persian context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Zarghami
- Professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Addiction Institute AND Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Maedeh Bagheri
- PhD Candidate, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Addiction Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hamed Bahari
- Researcher, Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khatereh Tufani
- Psychiatrist, Kian Drug Rehabilitation and Detoxification Center, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Mahjoub
- PhD Candidate, Student Research Center, International Campus, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Daneshmand
- Psychiatrist, Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Alammehrjerdi
- Researcher, Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Raheleh Mohammadian
- Researcher, Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Massah
- PhD Candidate, Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Karamouzian M, Shokoohi M, Kaplan RL, Noroozi A, Sharifi H, Baral SD, Mirzazadeh A. Characterizing the relationship between incarceration and structural risks among female sex workers in Iran: findings of a nationwide biobehavioral surveillance survey. Ann Epidemiol 2019; 35:29-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2019.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
23
|
Drug use patterns and associated factors among female sex workers in Iran. Addict Behav 2019; 90:40-47. [PMID: 30355536 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines the prevalence of drug and poly-drug use and their associated factors among female sex workers (FSW) in Iran. METHODS We analyzed data from a bio-behavioral surveillance survey of 1347 FSW across 13 major cities in Iran in 2015. Two outcome measures were defined: i) past-month "any drug use", a binary variable defined as none or any; and ii) a three-category past-month "poly-drug use" variable defined as none, only one drug, and more than one drug. Correlates of these two study outcomes were assessed using multivariable logistic regression and multinomial logistic regression, respectively. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. RESULTS We found that 24.9% (95% CI: 16.1, 36.4) and 13.5% (95% CI: 8.1, 21.5) of FSW reported past-month any drug use and poly-drug use, respectively. Longer sex work career (AOR 2.44 [95% CI: 1.28, 4.63]), unstable housing (AOR 2.56 [1.17, 5.64]), past-year experience of sexual violence (AOR 1.61 [1.15, 2.27]), and incarceration (AOR 2.02 [1.23, 3.32]) were positively associated with any drug use. Similarly, FSW who were unstably housed (AOR 3.4 [1.06, 10.95]), reported past-year experience of sexual violence (AOR 2.06 [95% CI: 1.24, 3.41]) and incarceration (AOR 2.82 [1.60, 4.97]) were positively associated with past-month poly-drug use. CONCLUSION Drug use is frequent among Iranian FSW, particularly among those who experienced sexual violence, unstable housing or incarceration. Programs to reduce harms associated with drug and poly-drug use should target FSW as a priority population.
Collapse
|
24
|
Rahimi S, Jalali A, Jalali R. Psychological Needs of Women Treated with Methadone: Mixed Method Study. ALCOHOLISM TREATMENT QUARTERLY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/07347324.2018.1554982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sharareh Rahimi
- Psychiatric Nursing Department, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kermanshah, University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Amir Jalali
- Psychiatric Department, Substance Abuse Prevention Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Rostam Jalali
- Nursing Department, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sharifi H, Mirzazadeh A, Shokoohi M, Karamouzian M, Khajehkazemi R, Navadeh S, Fahimfar N, Danesh A, Osooli M, McFarland W, Gouya MM, Haghdoost AA. Estimation of HIV incidence and its trend in three key populations in Iran. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207681. [PMID: 30496204 PMCID: PMC6264468 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In Iran, People Who Inject Drugs (PWID), Female Sex Workers (FSW), and prisoners are the main key populations at risk of HIV infection. This study aimed to evaluate the trend of HIV incidence among PWID, FSW and prisoners as an impact measure of HIV harm reduction and prevention efforts in Iran. Data were obtained from the two rounds of national bio-behavioral surveillance surveys among FSW (2010 (n = 872), 2015 (n = 1339)), PWID (2010 (n = 2417), 2014 (n = 2307)), and prisoners (2009 (n = 4536), 2013 (n = 5390)) through facility-based (FSW and PWID surveys) and cluster sampling (prisoner surveys). Time-at-risk was calculated assuming the age at first sex or drug injection as the beginning of the at-risk period and the age at the time of the interview or date when they received a positive HIV test result as the end of this period, adjusted for interval censoring. HIV incidence among PWID in 2014 was 5.39 (95% CI 4.71, 6.16) per 1,000 person-years (PY), significantly lower than in 2009 (17.07, 95% CI 15.34, 19.34). Similarly, HIV incidence was 1.12 (95% CI 0.77, 1.64) per 1,000 PY among FSW in 2015, a significant drop from 2010 (2.38, 95% CI 1.66, 3.40). Also, HIV incidence decreased among prisoners from 1.34 (95% CI: 1.08, 1.67) in 2009 to 0.49 (95% CI: 0.39, 0.61) per 1,000 PY in 2013. Our findings suggest that after an increase in the 2000s, the HIV incidence may have been decreased and stabilized among key populations in Iran.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Razieh Khajehkazemi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Soodabeh Navadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Noushin Fahimfar
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Danesh
- Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Department of Health and Social Medicine, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Osooli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Translational Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Willi McFarland
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Rostami M, Karamouzian M, Khosravi A, Rezaeian S. Gender and geographical inequalities in fatal drug overdose in Iran: A province-level study in 2006 and 2011. Spat Spatiotemporal Epidemiol 2018; 25:19-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sste.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
27
|
Prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection among prisoners in Iran: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Harm Reduct J 2018; 15:24. [PMID: 29739400 PMCID: PMC5941323 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-018-0231-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is one of the major public health problems both in developed and developing countries. Prison represents a high-risk environment for prisoners, in that it is characterized by high-risk behaviors such as injecting drug use (IDU), tattooing, unprotected sexual intercourses, or sharing syringes. The aim of this study was to quantitatively evaluate the prevalence of HCV among Iranian prisoners conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods We searched different scholarly databases including Embase, PubMed/MEDLINE, ISI/Web of Sciences, the Cochrane library, Scopus, CINAHL, and PsycINFO as well as Iranian bibliographic thesauri (namely, Barakatns, MagIran, and SID) up to December 2017. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of the studies included. HCV prevalence rate with its 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated using the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model, with Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation. Egger’s regression test was used to evaluate publication bias. Results Finally, 17 articles were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Overall, 18,693 prisoners were tested. Based on the random-effects model, the prevalence of HCV among Iranian prisoners was 28% (CI 95% 21–36) with heterogeneity of I2 = 99.3% (p = 0.00). All studies used an ELISA test for the evaluation of HCV antibodies. The findings of this study showed that the highest prevalence rate (53%) was among prisoners who inject drugs. Conclusion The findings of our study showed that the prevalence of HCV among Iranian prisoners is dramatically high. Managing this issue in Iran’s prisons requires careful attention to the availability of health facilities and instruments, such as screening, and harm reduction policies, such as giving sterile syringes and needles to prisoners. An integrated program of training for prisoners, prison personnel and medical staff is also needed to improve the level of health condition in prisons.
Collapse
|
28
|
Karamouzian M, Madani N, Doroudi F, Haghdoost AA. Tackling HIV in MENA: Talk Is Not Enough-It Is Time for Bold Actions: A Response to Recent Commentaries. Int J Health Policy Manag 2018. [PMID: 29524947 PMCID: PMC5819383 DOI: 10.15171/ijhpm.2017.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Navid Madani
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Fardad Doroudi
- UNAIDS - The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| |
Collapse
|