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Mosnier E, Hoyer M, Artigas F, Regnault H, Richard E, Michels D, Mosnier M, Inegbeze G, Robledo MS, Spire B, Vandentorren S, Lescaudron M, Eldin C, Roux P. Enhancing sexual health and empowerment among migrant women sex workers: a community health worker-led intervention in Marseille, France. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1359363. [PMID: 38601503 PMCID: PMC11005911 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1359363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Given the high infection rate of sexually transmitted infections (STI) among migrant women sex workers (WSWs), it is necessary to understand how to improve prevention, information and care for this vulnerable population. Community health workers (CHWs), by linking community to health services, are positioned to improve health outcomes in migrant communities. This article aims to describe a pilot innovative intervention performed by CHWs to improve sexual health in migrant WSWs. Methods This one-year intervention study used a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) to recruit a representative cohort of migrant WSWs in Marseille, France. Four CHWs were recruited from different communities and participated in all stages of the research. They performed individual and group interventions of prevention, support in care and empowerment. Data on participant characteristics, type of intervention and adherence to the intervention were reported via questionnaires given to participants. Simultaneously, semi-structured interviews and informal interviews of migrant WSW, CHWs and care providers were carried out. Results A total of 132 migrant WSWs were included in the cohort. Very few of them knew about PrEP (12%) or already used HIV post-exposure treatment (9%). Migrant WSWs were often victims of rape or racism, 15 and 21%, respectively. In two-thirds of cases the level of health literacy was low. Participants suffered from a combination of vulnerability factors: difficulties with access to social rights, food or housing. Only 13% reported having benefited from medical follow-up or assistance by an NGO in the 3 months prior to the program. By 3 months, more than one third of the participants had been tested for HIV (35%) and 63% knew about PrEP. A total retention rate of 70% was reported in the cohort after 6 months. Conclusion CHWs enabled to improve care access for migrant WSWs by improving the collaboration between care and social actors at a local level. Through these "bring-back-to" interventions for this hard-to-reach population, CHWs enabled an optimization of the care pathway. Our results also highlight the importance of a population-based approach for individual and group support of empowerment interventions in order to strengthen their capacity for action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Mosnier
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l’Information Médicale, Aix Marseille Institute of Public Health ISSPAM, Marseille, France
- ANRS-MIE, University of Health Sciences, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Maxime Hoyer
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l’Information Médicale, Aix Marseille Institute of Public Health ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | | | - Hippolyte Regnault
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l’Information Médicale, Aix Marseille Institute of Public Health ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Elodie Richard
- PHAReS, Centre INSERM U1218, Bordeaux Population Health, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - David Michels
- Association AIDES, Pantin, France
- Laboratoire de Recherche Communautaire, Coalition PLUS, Pantin, France
| | | | | | | | - Bruno Spire
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l’Information Médicale, Aix Marseille Institute of Public Health ISSPAM, Marseille, France
- Association AIDES, Pantin, France
| | - Stéphanie Vandentorren
- PHAReS, Centre INSERM U1218, Bordeaux Population Health, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Carole Eldin
- Unité des Virus Emergents (UVE), Aix-Marseille Université, IRD 190 INSERM 1207 EFS-IRBA, Marseille, France
| | - Perrine Roux
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l’Information Médicale, Aix Marseille Institute of Public Health ISSPAM, Marseille, France
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Anderegg N, Slabbert M, Buthelezi K, Johnson LF. Increasing age and duration of sex work among female sex workers in South Africa and implications for HIV incidence estimation: Bayesian evidence synthesis and simulation exercise. Infect Dis Model 2024; 9:263-277. [PMID: 38323073 PMCID: PMC10844672 DOI: 10.1016/j.idm.2024.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In sub-Saharan Africa, accurate estimates of the HIV epidemic in female sex workers are crucial for effective prevention and care strategies. These estimates are typically derived from mathematical models that assume certain demographic and behavioural characteristics like age and duration of sex work to remain constant over time. We reviewed this assumption for female sex workers in South Africa. Methods We reviewed studies that reported estimates on either the age or the duration of sex work among female sex workers in South Africa. We used Bayesian hierarchical models to synthesize reported estimates and to study time trends. In a simulation exercise, we also investigated the potential impact of the "constant age and sex work duration"-assumption on estimates of HIV incidence. Results We included 24 different studies, conducted between 1996 and 2019, contributing 42 estimates on female sex worker age and 27 estimates on sex work duration. There was evidence suggesting an increase in both the duration of sex work and the age of female sex workers over time. According to the fitted models, over each decade the expected duration of sex work increased by 55.6% (95%-credible interval [CrI]: 23.5%-93.9%) and the expected age of female sex workers increased by 14.3% (95%-CrI: 9.1%-19.1%). Over the 23-year period, the predicted mean duration of sex work increased from 2.7 years in 1996 to 7.4 years in 2019, while the predicted mean age increased from 26.4 years to 32.3 years. Allowing for these time trends in the simulation exercise resulted in a notable decline in estimated HIV incidence rate among sex workers over time. This decline was significantly more pronounced than when assuming a constant age and duration of sex work. Conclusions In South Africa, age and duration of sex work in female sex workers increased over time. While this trend might be influenced by factors like expanding community mobilization and improved rights advocacy, the ongoing criminalisation, stigmatisation of sex work and lack of alternative employment opportunities could also be contributing. It is important to account for these changes when estimating HIV indicators in female sex workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanina Anderegg
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Leigh F. Johnson
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
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Kawuma S, Katwesigye R, Walusaga H, Akatukunda P, Nangendo J, Kabugo C, Kamya MR, Semitala FC. Determinants to Continuation on Hiv Pre-exposure Propylaxis Among Female Sex Workers at a Referral Hospital in Uganda: a Mixed Methods Study Using Com-b Model. Res Sq 2024:rs.3.rs-3914483. [PMID: 38405703 PMCID: PMC10889058 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3914483/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Background Female sex workers (FSWs) have the highest HIV prevalence in Uganda. Pre exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been recommended as part of the HIV combination prevention strategy, with improved patient initiation, but continuation on the service is low. We evaluated PrEP continuation among FSWs and explored potential determinants of PrEP continuation within a public referral hospital in Urban Uganda. Methods An explanatory sequential mixed method study was conducted at Kiruddu National referral hospital in Uganda. Secondary data on social demographic characteristics and follow up outcomes of at least one year was collected for all FSWs who were initiated PrEP between May 2020 and April 2021.We used Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to evaluate continuation on PrEP from time of initiation and follow-up period. The capability, opportunity, and motivation to change behaviour model was used to explore perspectives and practices of FSWs (n = 24) and health care providers (n = 8) on continuation on PrEP among FSWs, using semi structured interviews. The qualitative data was deductively coded and analyzed thematically, categorizing the themes related to PrEP continuation as facilitators and barriers. Results Of the 292 FSWs initiated on PrEP during this period, 101 (34.6) % were active on PrEP, 137 (46.9%) were lost to follow-up, 45 (15.4%) were no longer eligible to continue PrEP, eight (2.7%) were transferred out and one (0.3%) had died. Median survival time on PrEP was 15 months (Interquartile range IQR, 3-21). The continuation rates on PrEP at six (6) and 12 months were, 61.1% and 53.1%, respectively. Facilitators of PrEP continuation included awareness of risk associated with sex work, integration of PrEP with other HIV prevention services, presence of PrEP Peer support and use of Drop-in centers. The barriers included low community awareness about PrEP, high mobility of sex workers, substance abuse, and the unfavorable daytime clinic schedules. Conclusion Continuation on PrEP remains low among FSWs. Interventions for PrEP continuation should address barriers such as low community awareness on PrEP, substance abuse and restrictive health facility policies for scale of the PrEP program among FSWs in Uganda. Integration of PrEP with other services and scale up of community PrEP delivery structures may improve its continuation.
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Debel L, Ayalew J, Abdella S, Bulti J, Bejiga B, Wariso FB, Belete W, Habtesilase A, Lulseged S. Gender-based violence and associated factors among female sex workers in Ethiopia. Evidence from The National Bio-behavioral Survey, 2020. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1213725. [PMID: 38356655 PMCID: PMC10864632 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1213725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Gender-based violence (GBV) is usually defined as unequal power relations between men and women, which poses a widespread public health problem. The study evaluated the prevalence and factors associated with GBV among female sex workers (FSWs) in Ethiopia. Method We used cross-sectional bio-behavioral data collected using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) in 2020 from 16 towns in Ethiopia. Descriptive statistics was analyzed to summarize the study population characteristics and prevalence of GBV, and a multilevel logistic regression model was applied to identify associated factors for GBV. A p-value of ≤0.05 was used as a threshold for statistical significance. Result Of 6,085 participants, 28.1% had experienced GBV during the last 12 months, among which 12.7% and 22.3% experienced physical and sexual violence, respectively. FSWs aged 15-24, and 25-34 than those 35 years or more, had a non-paying than paying partners, had 31-60, 61-90, and over 91 than those had less than 30 paying partners, ever had anal sex than those not, condom failure than those not, mobile female sex workers when compared with those not mobile at different town; 3-5 and ≥ 6 years than those less than 3 years stayed in selling sex, street-based, and multiple places selling sex than those used other venues were significantly associated with GBV. Conclusion Gender-based violence is a substantial problem among FSWs in Ethiopia, with significant implications for program planning on prevention and response to mitigate the occurrence and impact of GBV among FSWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lemessa Debel
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, HIV/TB Research Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Jemal Ayalew
- Department of Statistics, Wollo University, College of Natural Science, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Saro Abdella
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, HIV/TB Research Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Jaleta Bulti
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, HIV/TB Research Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Birra Bejiga
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, HIV/TB Research Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Fayiso Bati Wariso
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, HIV/TB Research Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Wudinesh Belete
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, HIV/TB Research Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Habtesilase
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, HIV/TB Research Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Silesh Lulseged
- Addis Ababa University, Faculty of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Macleod CI, Reynolds JH, Delate R. Violence Against Women Who Sell Sex in Eastern and Southern Africa: A Scoping Review. Trauma Violence Abuse 2024; 25:691-703. [PMID: 36964683 PMCID: PMC10666481 DOI: 10.1177/15248380231160847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Women who sell sex (WSS) are vulnerable to violence. We present a scoping review of the last decade of research on the prevalence and incidence of, factors associated with, and services regarding violence against WSS in Eastern and Southern African (ESA). A systematic search of various databases resulted in 20 papers being reviewed. Inclusion criteria, applied by the first two authors, were as follows: empirical papers, key research problem is violence against WSS, and conducted in ESA countries. The lifetime prevalence of violence revealed in the studies ranged from 21% to 82%. A pattern of generalized violence against WSS from paying clients, male partners, strangers, family members, friends/acquaintances, and the authorities emerged. Factors associated with violence included the context within which the sex work occurs, alcohol use, type of sex exchange interactions, and personal factors (low education, low income, marriage, youth, high client volume, time in sex work, forced sexual debut, and internalized sex work stigma). WSS seldom access services after violence. Evaluations of two programs, a woman-focused HIV intervention, and the Diagonal Interventions to Fast-Forward Reproductive Health project, showed improvements in gender-based violence services. Findings suggest that targeted programmes should be paired with improving general health services and focus on promoting collective agency among WSS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Richard Delate
- United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Pretoria, South Africa
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Shah P, Kabuti R, Beksinska A, Nyariki E, Babu H, Kungu M, Jama Z, Ngurukiri P, Kaul R, Kyegombe N, Medley GF, Devries K, Seeley J, Weiss HA, Beattie TS, Kimani J. Childhood and adolescent factors shaping vulnerability to underage entry into sex work: a quantitative hierarchical analysis of female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e078618. [PMID: 38114279 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore factors associated with early age at entry into sex work, among a cohort of female sex workers (FSWs) in Nairobi, Kenya. BACKGROUND Younger age at sex work initiation increases the risk of HIV acquisition, condom non-use, violence victimisation and alcohol and/or substance use problems. This study aimed to understand factors in childhood and adolescence that shape the vulnerability to underage sex work initiation. DESIGN Building on previous qualitative research with this cohort, analysis of behavioural-biological cross-sectional data using hierarchical logistic regression. PARTICIPANTS AND MEASURES FSWs aged 18-45 years were randomly selected from seven Sex Workers Outreach Programme clinics in Nairobi, and between June and December 2019, completed a baseline behavioural-biological survey. Measurement tools included WHO Adverse Childhood Experiences, Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test and questionnaires on sociodemographic information, sexual risk behaviours and gender-based violence. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were conducted using hierarchical modelling. RESULTS Of the 1003 FSWs who participated in the baseline survey (response rate 96%), 176 (17.5%) initiated sex work while underage (<18 years). In the multivariable analysis, factors associated with entering sex work while underage included incomplete secondary school education (aOR=2.82; 95% CI=1.69 to 4.73), experiencing homelessness as a child (aOR=2.20; 95% CI=1.39 to 3.48), experiencing childhood physical or sexual violence (aOR=1.85; 95% CI=1.09 to 3.15), young age of sexual debut (≤15 years) (aOR=5.03; 95% CI=1.83 to 13.79) and being childless at time of sex work initiation (aOR=9.80; 95% CI=3.60 to 26.66). CONCLUSIONS Lower education level and childhood homelessness, combined with sexual violence and sexual risk behaviours in childhood, create pathways to underage initiation into sex work. Interventions designed for girls and young women at these pivotal points in their lives could help prevent underage sex work initiation and their associated health, social and economic consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Shah
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London, UK
| | - Rhoda Kabuti
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alicja Beksinska
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London, UK
| | - Emily Nyariki
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hellen Babu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mary Kungu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Zaina Jama
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Rupert Kaul
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nambusi Kyegombe
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London, UK
| | - Graham F Medley
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London, UK
| | - Karen Devries
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London, UK
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Wakiso, Uganda
| | - Helen Anne Weiss
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and International Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tara S Beattie
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London, UK
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
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Willis B, Church K, Perttu E, Thompson H, Weerasinghe S, Macias-Konstantopoulos W. The preventable burden of mortality from unsafe abortion among female sex workers: a Community Knowledge Approach survey among peer networks in eight countries. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2023; 31:2250618. [PMID: 37712508 PMCID: PMC10506426 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2023.2250618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have found high levels of unintended pregnancy among female sex workers (FSW), but less attention has been paid to their abortion practices and outcomes. This study is the first to investigate abortion-related mortality among FSW across eight countries: Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), India, Indonesia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. The Community Knowledge Approach (CKA) was used to survey a convenience sample of FSW (n = 1280). Participants reported on the deaths of peer FSW in their social networks during group meetings convened by non-governmental organisations (n = 165 groups, conducted across 24 cities in 2019). Details on any peer FSW deaths in the preceding five years were recorded. The circumstances of abortion-related deaths are reported here. Of the 1320 maternal deaths reported, 750 (56.8%) were due to unsafe abortion. The number of abortion-related deaths reported was highest in DRC (304 deaths reported by 270 participants), Kenya (188 deaths reported by 175 participants), and Nigeria (216 deaths reported by 312 participants). Among the abortion-related deaths, mean gestational age was 4.6 months and 75% occurred outside hospital. Unsafe abortion methods varied by country, but consumption of traditional or unknown medicines was most common (37.9% and 29.9%, respectively). The 750 abortion-related deaths led to 1207 children being left motherless. The CKA successfully recorded a stigmatised practice among a marginalised population, identifying very high levels of abortion-related mortality. Urgent action is now needed to deliver comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare to this vulnerable population, including contraption, safe abortion, and post-abortion care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Willis
- Director, Global Health Promise, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kathryn Church
- Independent Consultant, London, UK; Honorary Assistant Professor, Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Emily Perttu
- Director of Data Analysis, Global Health Promise, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Heather Thompson
- Maternal Health Advisor, Global Health Promise, Portland, OR, USA; Adjunct Professor, Schulich School of Medicine, McMaster Faculty of Medicine; & Obstetrician/Gynecologist, Grey Bruce Health Services, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Swarna Weerasinghe
- Biostatistician, Global Health Promise, Portland, OR, USA; Associate Professor, Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, Faculty of Medicine, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Wendy Macias-Konstantopoulos
- Global Policy Advisor, Global Health Promise, Portland, OR, USA; Director, Center for Social Justice and Health Equity, Department of Emergency Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Jones HS, Anderson RL, Cust H, McClelland RS, Richardson BA, Thirumurthy H, Malama K, Hensen B, Platt L, Rice B, Cowan FM, Imai-Eaton JW, Hargreaves JR, Stevens O. HIV incidence among women engaging in sex work in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. medRxiv 2023:2023.10.17.23297108. [PMID: 37905066 PMCID: PMC10615019 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.17.23297108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Introduction HIV incidence among women in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has declined steadily, but it is unknown whether new infections among women who engage in sex work (WESW) have declined at a similar rate. We synthesised estimates of HIV incidence among WESW in SSA and compared these to the wider female population to understand levels and trends in incidence over time. Methods We searched Medline, Embase, Global Health, Popline, Web of Science, and Google Scholar from January 1990 to October 2022, and grey literature for estimates of HIV incidence among WESW in SSA. We included studies reporting empirical estimates in any SSA country. We calculated incidence rate ratios (IRR) compared to age-district-year matched total female population incidence estimates. We conducted a meta-analysis of IRRs and used a continuous mixed-effects model to estimate changes in IRR over time. Results From 32 studies between 1985 and 2020, 2,194 new HIV infections were observed in WESW over 51,000 person-years (py). Median HIV incidence was 4.3/100py (IQR 2.8-7.0/100py), declining from a median of 5.96/100py between 1985 and 1995 to a median of 3.2/100py between 2010 and 2020. Incidence among WESW was nine times higher than in matched total population women (RR 8.6, 95%CI: 5.7-12.9), and greater in Western and Central Africa (RR 22.4, 95%CI: 11.3-44.3) than in Eastern and Southern Africa (RR 5.3, 95%CI: 3.7-7.6). Annual changes in log IRRs were minimal (-0.1% 95%CI: -6.9 to +6.8%). Conclusions Across SSA, HIV incidence among WESW remains disproportionately high compared to the total female population but showed similar rates of decline between 1990 and 2020. Improved surveillance and standardisation of approaches to obtain empirical estimates of sex worker incidence would enable a clearer understanding of whether we are on track to meet global targets for this population and better support data-driven HIV prevention programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet S Jones
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rebecca L Anderson
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Henry Cust
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - R Scott McClelland
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Barbra A Richardson
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kalonde Malama
- University of Toronto Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Toronto Ontario, Canada
| | - Bernadette Hensen
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Group, Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Lucy Platt
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Brian Rice
- Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research (SCHARR); School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Frances M Cowan
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jeffrey W Imai-Eaton
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics, Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - James R Hargreaves
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Oliver Stevens
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Abrahim SA, Demissie M, Worku A, Dheresa M, Berhane Y. The effect of drop-in centers on access to HIV testing, case finding, and condom use among female sex workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16144. [PMID: 37868058 PMCID: PMC10588723 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Varied HIV prevention interventions involving multiple strategies has been instrumental in the effort to contain and lessen the prevalence of HIV around the globe. However, female sex workers (FSWs) often face stigma and discriminatory challenges, resulting in lower access to the HIV prevention initiatives. This study has aimed to assess the effect of one of the HIV service delivery models, the Drop-in Centers (DICs), which is designed to overcome the service uptake barriers of FSWs. Method A quasi-experimental study design was employed. A respondent-driven sampling technique was used to recruit 1,366 FSWs from January to June 2020. A propensity score matching technique was used to balance the potential confounders between FSWs who had access to DICs and those who had never accessed DICs. Comparisons of the effect of DIC on the outcome of interest was made using a logit regression model at a 5% level of significance. Results A total of 1,366 FSWs took part in the study. The analysis estimated the average treatment effects of access to DICs on four key outcomes: ever-testing to know HIV status, finding HIV-positive FSWs, awareness of HIV-positive status, and consistent condom use. A significant effect of DIC was seen at a 95% confidence interval on each outcome. Access to DIC produced a 7.58% increase in the probability of testing to know HIV status (P < 0.001), a 7.02% increment in finding HIV-positive FSWs (P = 0.003), an increase of 6.93% in awareness of HIV status among HIV positive FSWs (P = 0.001), and a 4.39% rise in consistent condom use (P = 0.01). Conclusions Ensuring access of FSWs to DICs has led to an upsurge in HIV testing among FSWs, raising HIV status awareness among those who are HIV positive, and encouraged consistent condom use. To provide effective HIV prevention services, particularly to those FSWs living with HIV, it is essential to strengthen the services provided in DICs and expand the centers. This will ensure that the entire network of FSWs is reached with appropriate HIV prevention services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saro Abdella Abrahim
- HIV and TB Research Directorate, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Meaza Demissie
- Department of Global Health and Health Policy, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Worku
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Merga Dheresa
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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10
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Hendrickson ZM, Tomko C, Galai N, Sisson LN, Glick JL, Sherman SG. A Longitudinal Analysis of Residential Mobility and Experience of Client Violence Among Women Who Exchange Sex in Baltimore. J Interpers Violence 2023; 38:11017-11045. [PMID: 37395208 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231178492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Residential mobility remains an underexplored yet critical construct that may influence the risk of violence among women who exchange sex. This study examined the longitudinal relationship between residential mobility and experience of client-perpetrated physical or sexual violence among women who exchange sex in Baltimore, Maryland. Participants were at least at 18 years of age, were cisgender women, reported having engaged in transactional sex three or more times within the last 3 months, and were willing to be contacted for 6-, 12-, and 18-month follow-up visits. Analyses of responses from 370 women who exchange sex participating in at least one study visit were conducted. Unadjusted and adjusted Poisson regression models of the association over time between residential mobility and recent experience of physical or sexual violence were fit. Generalized estimating equations with an exchangeable correlation structure and robust variance estimation were used to account for clustering of participants' responses over time. Findings demonstrated that those who had lived in at least four places in the past 6 months had a 39% increased risk of client-perpetrated physical violence (aRR: 1.39; 95% CI: 1.07-1.80; p < .05) and a 63% increased risk of sexual violence (aRR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.14-2.32; p < .01) compared to their less-mobile counterparts. These findings provide necessary evidence of correlations over time between residential mobility and experience of client-perpetrated violence among women who exchange sex. Strengthening our understanding of how residential mobility intersects with violence is critical for the development of public health interventions that are relevant to women's lives and needs. Future interventions should explore including residential mobility, a critical pillar of housing instability, with efforts to address client-perpetrated violence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Catherine Tomko
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Noya Galai
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- University of Haifa, Mt Carmel, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Jennifer L Glick
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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11
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Gorin EM, Lyons CE, Jarrett BA, Djalo MA, Barreto K, Drame FM, Baral S. Mobility and HIV vulnerabilities among female sex workers in Guinea-Bissau: findings from an integrated bio-behavioral survey. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1856. [PMID: 37749506 PMCID: PMC10518914 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16744-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobility is an important risk determinant for HIV given the potential for intermittent access to HIV services. Mobility may be particularly relevant among female sex workers, (FSW) who have been shown to be at high risk for HIV in settings around the world. Data regarding the role mobility plays in exacerbating HIV risks among FSW across Sub-Saharan Africa remains limited, and data on FSW in Guinea-Bissau is sparse. METHODS FSW in four regions of Guinea-Bissau were recruited with a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) method and participated in an integrated bio-behavioral survey between September 27, 2017 and January 26, 2018. Associations between reported general mobility, mobility to or residence in Bissau, and social and HIV vulnerabilities among FSW in Guinea-Bissau were assessed using multivariable logistic regression models. Population proportions were weighted for RDS sampling, while logistic regression models were not. RESULTS Survey respondents included 323 individuals in Bissau, 45 in Bissorã, 140 in Bafatá, and 59 in Gabu. Statistical analyses demonstrated that mobility to more than one destination was significantly associated with recent sex without a condom (ie, sex without a condom within the last three sex acts) with both clients (aOR: 2.47 (95% CI: 1.08, 5.64)) and non-paying partners (aOR: 5.39 (95% CI: 2.61, 11.15)) compared to non-mobility. However, mobility to one or more locations was also associated with higher odds of receiving HIV prevention information, and mobility to more than one location was associated with participating in programming with HIV-related organizations. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that while some prevention services including HIV prevention information reach mobile FSW in Guinea-Bissau more than their non-mobile counterparts, the higher rates of condomless sex among mobile FSW suggest that HIV prevention needs may remain unmet for mobile FSW in Guinea-Bissau. Additionally, the results suggest a nuanced relationship between mobility, place of residence, and HIV and social vulnerabilities and prevention indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Gorin
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Present address: Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 W 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Carrie E Lyons
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Brooke A Jarrett
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | | | | | | | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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12
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Bongomin F, Pebolo PF, Kibone W, Apio PO, Nsenga L, Okot J, Madraa G, Laker FG, Akello M, Ouma S, Musoke D. Dual contraceptive use and associated factors among female sex workers in Gulu City, Uganda in 2023. Trop Med Health 2023; 51:45. [PMID: 37587526 PMCID: PMC10428524 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-023-00536-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dual contraception is an essential approach to mitigating the heightened risks of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections faced by female sex workers (FSWs). We determined the prevalence and factors associated with dual contraceptive use among FSWs in Northern Uganda. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in Gulu city, Uganda between February, and March 2023. Purposively selected FSWs aged 18 years or older who provided verbal informed consent were enrolled in the study. A sample size of 374 was estimated. Data on sociodemographic and reproductive health characteristics were collected using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Current dual contraception was defined the as concurrent use of a barrier and any other modern contraceptive methods within the last 3 months. Continuous variables were summarized using mean and standard deviation and categorical variables were summarized using frequencies and percentages. Modified Poisson regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with dual contraceptive use. RESULTS We enrolled 314 FSWs, with a mean age of 28.8 ± 6.4 years. About 13.8% (n = 41) were living with HIV. In total, 66.2% (95%CI 60.8-71.3) of the participants (n = 208) reported current dual contraceptive use. The most common modern contraceptive method used was the implants (52.4%, n = 109), followed by injectable contraceptives (22.6.0%, n = 47), and bilateral tubal ligation (0.5%, n = 1) was the least utilized. Having had at least one previous pregnancy was positively associated with dual contraceptive use (adjusted PR: 1.87, 95%CI 1.40-2.51, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS A high proportion of FSWs in Gulu city were currently using dual contraceptives. Interventions are needed to facilitate the use of dual contraception, particularly among FSWs without a history of previous pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Bongomin
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, P.O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda.
| | - Pebalo Francis Pebolo
- Department of Reproductive Health, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Winnie Kibone
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Pamela Okwir Apio
- Makerere Lung Institute, School of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lauryn Nsenga
- School of Medicine, Kabale University, Kabale, Uganda
| | - Jerom Okot
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, P.O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Grace Madraa
- Department of Rural Development and Agri-Business, Faculty of Agriculture, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | | | | | - Simple Ouma
- The AIDS Support Organization, Kampala, Uganda
- The Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, University College London, London, UK
| | - David Musoke
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, P.O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda
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Poxon A, Leis M, McDermott M, Kariri A, Kaul R, Kimani J. Emergency departments as under-utilized venues to provide HIV prevention services to female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya. Int J Emerg Med 2023; 16:47. [PMID: 37537558 PMCID: PMC10399019 DOI: 10.1186/s12245-023-00516-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sex workers (FSW) in sub-Saharan Africa are disproportionately affected by HIV and remain a key target population for efforts to reduce transmission. While HIV prevention tools such as PEP and PrEP are available through outpatient FSW clinics, these services are underused. Emergency medicine is a rapidly expanding field in Kenya and may provide a novel venue for initiating or optimizing HIV prevention services. This study examined the characteristics of FSW from Nairobi, Kenya, who had utilized an emergency department (ED) during the past year to broaden our understanding of the patient factors related to usage. METHODS An anonymous questionnaire was administered to a convenience sample of 220 Nairobi FSW attending dedicated clinics from June to July 2019. The participants were categorized into those who attended an ED over the past year (acute care users) and clinic-only users (control). A modified version of the WHO Violence Against Women Instrument assessed gender-based violence. Multivariable negative binomial logistic regressions evaluated predictors of health care use among these populations. RESULTS Of the total 220 women (median [IQR] age 32 [27-39]), 101 and 116 were acute care and control populations, respectively. Acute care users had 12.7 ± 8.5 healthcare visits over a 12-month period, and the control population had 9.1 ± 7.0 (p < 0.05). ED attendance did not improve the PrEP usage, with 48.5%, and 51% of acute care and clinic users indicated appropriate PrEP use. Patient factors that correlated with health care utilization among acute care users included client sexual violence (OR 2.2 [1.64-2.94], p < 0.01), PrEP use (OR 1.54 (1.25-1.91), < 0.01), and client HIV status (OR 1.35 (1.02-1.69), p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Many FSW at high risk for HIV were not accessing HIV prevention tools despite attending a dedicated FSW clinic offering such services. FSW who had attended an ED over the past year had a higher prevalence of HIV risk factors, demonstrating that emergency departments may be important acute intervention venues to prevent HIV transmission in this population. These results can guide policy design, health care provider training, and facility preparedness to support strategies aimed at improving HIV prevention strategies for FSW in Kenyan ED's.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Poxon
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, M5S1A8, Canada.
| | - Maria Leis
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, M5S1A8, Canada
| | - Miranda McDermott
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, M5S1A8, Canada
| | - Antony Kariri
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, M5S1A8, Canada
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Manitoba, Canada
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14
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Kiyingi J, Witte SS, Nabunya P, Nsubuga E, Bahar OS, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Kizito S, Nattabi J, Nabayinda J, Ssewamala FM. Predictors of mobility among women engaged in commercial sex work in Uganda using generalized estimating equations model. Int J STD AIDS 2023; 34:633-640. [PMID: 37018458 PMCID: PMC10523898 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231167910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women engaged in commercial sex work (WESW) are at a higher risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV. WESW are highly mobile, and their mobility may increase their economic status, and increased access to healthcare and other social services. However, it may also facilitate the spread of HIV infection from higher to lower prevalence regions. This study examined the predictors of mobility among WESW in Uganda using a generalized estimating equations model. METHODS We defined and measured mobility as the change in residence by WESW between baseline, 6 months, and 12 months follow-up. Participants who changed places were considered mobile, and those who never changed were non-mobile. We used data from a longitudinal study, which recruited 542 WESW from Southern Uganda aged 18-55 years and constructed a Generalized Estimating Equations Model. RESULTS Findings show that 19.6% of WESW changed residence between baseline and 6 months of follow-up and 26.2% (cumulative) between baseline and 12 months of follow-up. Older women (OR = 0.966, 95% CI = 0.935, 0.997) were associated with decreased odds of mobility, whereas WESW who were HIV positive (OR = 1.475, 95% CI = 1.078, 2.018) and those from large households (OR = 1.066, 95% CI = 1.001, 1.134) were associated with increased odds of mobility. WESW residing in rural areas (OR = 0.535, 95% CI = 0.351, 0.817) were associated with decreased odds of mobility compared to those from fishing sites. CONCLUSION The results indicate risk factors for mobility, further research is needed to determine the directionality of these factors in order to design interventions addressing mobility among WESW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kiyingi
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University, School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Samuel Kizito
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
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Bhattacharjee P, Isac S, Musyoki H, Gichangi P, Ma H, Becker M, Hontelez J, Mishra S. Changes in context, typology and programme outcomes between early and recent periods of sex work among young female sex workers in Mombasa, Kenya: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288717. [PMID: 37490512 PMCID: PMC10368250 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The sex work context and typology change continuously and influence HIV related risk and vulnerability for young female sex workers (YFSW). We sought to describe changes in the context and typology of sex work between the first (early) and past month (recent) of sex work among YFSW to inform HIV prevention programming for sex workers. METHODS We used data from a cross-sectional survey (April-November 2015), administered using physical location-based sampling to 408 cis-women, aged 14-24 years, who self-identified as sex workers, in Mombasa, Kenya. We collected self-reported data on the early and recent month of sex work. The analysis focused on changes in a) sex work context and typology (defined by setting where sex workers practice sex work) where YFSW operated, b) primary typology of sex work, and c) HIV programme outcomes among YFSW who changed primary typology, within the early and recent month of sex work. We analysed the data using a) SPSS27.0 and excel; b) bivariate analysis and χ2 test; and c) bivariate logistic regression models. RESULTS Overall, the median age of respondents was 20 years and median duration in sex work was 2 years. Higher proportion of respondents in the recent period managed their clients on their own (98.0% vs. 91.2%), had sex with >5 clients per week (39.3% vs.16.5%); were able to meet > 50% of living expenses through sex work income (46.8% vs. 18.8%); and experienced police violence in the past month (16.4% vs. 6.5%). YFSW reported multiple sex work typology in early and recent periods. Overall, 37.2% reported changing their primary typology. A higher proportion among those who used street/ bus stop typology, experienced police violence, or initiated sex work after 19 years of age in the early period reported a change. There was no difference in HIV programme outcomes among YFSW who changed typology vs. those who did not. CONCLUSIONS The sex work context changes even in a short duration of two years. Hence, understanding these changes in the early period of sex work can allow for development of tailored strategies that are responsive to the specific needs and vulnerabilities of YFSW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parinita Bhattacharjee
- Institute for Global Public Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shajy Isac
- Institute for Global Public Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Helgar Musyoki
- National AIDS and STI Control Programme, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter Gichangi
- International Centre for Reproductive Health- Kenya, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Huiting Ma
- St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marissa Becker
- Institute for Global Public Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Jan Hontelez
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sharmistha Mishra
- St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Jones HS, Hensen B, Musemburi S, Chinyanganya L, Takaruza A, Chabata ST, Matambanadzo P, Platt L, Rice B, Cowan FM, Hargreaves JR. Temporal trends in, and risk factors for, HIV seroconversion among female sex workers accessing Zimbabwe's national sex worker programme, 2009-19: a retrospective cohort analysis of routinely collected HIV testing data. Lancet HIV 2023; 10:e442-e452. [PMID: 37329897 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(23)00110-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The frequency of new HIV infections among female sex workers in sub-Saharan Africa is poorly understood. We used routinely collected data that enable unique identification of repeat HIV testers to assess temporal trends in seroconversion and identify associated risk factors for female sex workers accessing Sisters with a Voice, Zimbabwe's national sex worker programme. METHODS We pooled HIV testing data gathered between Sept 15, 2009, and Dec 31, 2019, from 36 Sisters programme sites in Zimbabwe. We included female sex workers aged 16 years or older with an HIV-negative test and at least one subsequent programme test. We calculated HIV seroconversion rates (using the midpoint between the HIV-positive test and the last negative test as the seroconversion date) and estimated rate ratios to compare 2-year periods by using Poisson regression, with robust SEs to account for clustering by site and adjusting for age and testing frequency to assess temporal trends. We did sensitivity analyses to explore assumptions about seroconversion dates and the effects of variation in follow-up time on our conclusions. FINDINGS Our analysis included data for 6665 female sex workers, 441 (7%) of whom seroconverted. The overall seroconversion rate was 3·8 (95% CI 3·4-4·2) per 100 person-years at risk. Seroconversion rates fell with time since first negative HIV test. After adjustment, there was evidence of a decrease in seroconversion rates from 2009 to 2019 (p=0·0053). In adjusted analyses, being younger than 25 years, and having a sexually transmitted infection diagnosis at a previous visit, were significantly associated with increased seroconversion rates. Our findings were mostly robust to sensitivity analyses, but when 1 month before an HIV-positive test was used as the seroconversion date, seroconversion rates no longer fell with time. INTERPRETATION We identified high rates of seroconversion shortly after linkage to programme services, which emphasises the need to strengthen HIV prevention programmes from first contact with female sex workers in Zimbabwe. New infections among female sex workers remain challenging to measure, but longitudinal analysis of routine testing data can provide valuable insights into seroconversion rates and associated risk factors. FUNDING UN Population Fund, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, US Agency for International Development, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet S Jones
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Bernadette Hensen
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Group, Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | | | - Albert Takaruza
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sungai T Chabata
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Lucy Platt
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Brian Rice
- University of Sheffield, School of Health and Related Research, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Frances M Cowan
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe; Faculty of Global Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - James R Hargreaves
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Shah P, Beattie TS, Kabuti R, Liku J, Kung'u M, Babu H, Jama Z, Kaul R, Weiss HA, Kyegombe N, Medley GF, Devries K, Gafos M, Nyariki E, Kimani J, Seeley J. Syndemic of factors that shape the early lives of women who enter into sex work: a qualitative methods study from Nairobi, Kenya. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e068886. [PMID: 37045579 PMCID: PMC10106030 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-068886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the structural and social co-factors that shape the early lives of women who enter sex work in Nairobi, Kenya. DESIGN Thematic analysis of qualitative data collected as part of the Maisha Fiti study among female sex workers (FSWs) in Nairobi. PARTICIPANTS AND MEASURES FSWs aged 18-45 years were randomly selected from seven Sex Workers Outreach Programme clinics in Nairobi and participated in baseline behavioural-biological surveys. Participants in this qualitative study were randomly selected from the Maisha Fiti study cohort and were interviewed between October 2019 and July 2020. Women described their lives from childhood, covering topics including sex work, violence and financial management. RESULTS 48 out of 1003 Maisha Fiti participants participated in the in-depth qualitative interviews. FSWs described how physical and sexual violence, poverty and incomplete education in their childhood and adolescence intertwined with early pregnancy, marriage, intimate partner violence and relationship breakdown in their adolescence and early adulthood. The data analysis found clear syndemic relationships between these risk factors, particularly childhood violence, poverty and incomplete education and highlighted pathways leading to financial desperation and caring for dependents, and subsequent entry into sex work. Women perceived sex work as risky and most would prefer alternative work if possible, but it provided them with some financial independence and agency. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study in Kenya to qualitatively explore the early lives of sex workers from a syndemic perspective. This method identified the pivotal points of (1) leaving school early due to poverty or pregnancy, (2) breakdown of early intimate relationships and (3) women caring for dependents on their own. Complex, multi-component structural interventions before these points could help increase school retention, reduce teenage pregnancy, tackle violence, support young mothers and reduce entry into sex work and the risk that it entails by expanding livelihood options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Shah
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tara S Beattie
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rhoda Kabuti
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jennifer Liku
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mary Kung'u
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hellen Babu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Zaina Jama
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Helen Anne Weiss
- MRC International and Statistics Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Nambusi Kyegombe
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Graham F Medley
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Karen Devries
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mitzy Gafos
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Emily Nyariki
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Janet Seeley
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
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Thorp M, Ayieko J, Hoffman RM, Balakasi K, Camlin CS, Dovel K. Mobility and HIV care engagement: a research agenda. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26058. [PMID: 36943731 PMCID: PMC10029995 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mobility is common and an essential livelihood strategy in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Mobile people suffer worse outcomes at every stage of the HIV care cascade compared to non-mobile populations. Definitions of mobility vary widely, and research on the role of temporary mobility (as opposed to permanent migration) in HIV treatment outcomes is often lacking. In this article, we review the current landscape of mobility and HIV care research to identify what is already known, gaps in the literature, and recommendations for future research. DISCUSSION Mobility in SSA is closely linked to income generation, though caregiving, climate change and violence also contribute to the need to move. Mobility is likely to increase in the coming decades, both due to permanent migration and increased temporary mobility, which is likely much more common. We outline three central questions regarding mobility and HIV treatment outcomes in SSA. First, it is unclear what aspects of mobility matter most for HIV care outcomes and if high-risk mobility can be identified or predicted, which is necessary to facilitate targeted interventions for mobile populations. Second, it is unclear what groups are most vulnerable to mobility-associated treatment interruption and other adverse outcomes. And third, it is unclear what interventions can improve HIV treatment outcomes for mobile populations. CONCLUSIONS Mobility is essential for people living with HIV in SSA. HIV treatment programmes and broader health systems must understand and adapt to human mobility, both to promote the rights and welfare of mobile people and to end the HIV pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marguerite Thorp
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - James Ayieko
- Center for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteKisumuKenya
| | - Risa M. Hoffman
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Carol S. Camlin
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Center for AIDS Prevention StudiesDepartment of MedicineUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Kathryn Dovel
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- Partners in HopeLilongweMalawi
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Perrault Sullivan G, Guédou FA, Tounkara FK, Béhanzin L, Camara N, Aza-Gnandji M, Keita BD, Azonnadou O, Thera I, Avery L, Alary M. Longitudinal study of pregnancy intention and its association with pregnancy occurrence among female sex workers in Benin and Mali. Reprod Health 2023; 20:25. [PMID: 36717914 PMCID: PMC9887776 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-023-01565-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 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. METHODS We 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. RESULTS 407 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. CONCLUSION The 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gentiane Perrault Sullivan
- grid.23856.3a0000 0004 1936 8390Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Université Laval, Québec, Canada ,grid.23856.3a0000 0004 1936 8390Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Centre de recherche du Chu de Québec – Université Laval, Québec, Canada ,grid.434819.30000 0000 8929 2775Institut National de Santé Publique, Québec, Canada
| | - Fernand Aimé Guédou
- grid.23856.3a0000 0004 1936 8390Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Centre de recherche du Chu de Québec – Université Laval, Québec, Canada ,Dispensaire IST, Centre de Santé Communal de Cotonou 1, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Fatoumata Korika Tounkara
- grid.23856.3a0000 0004 1936 8390Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Luc Béhanzin
- grid.23856.3a0000 0004 1936 8390Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Centre de recherche du Chu de Québec – Université Laval, Québec, Canada ,Dispensaire IST, Centre de Santé Communal de Cotonou 1, Cotonou, Benin ,grid.440525.20000 0004 0457 5047École Nationale de Formation des Techniciens Supérieurs en Santé Publique et en Surveillance Épidémiologique, Université de Parakou, Parakou, Benin
| | | | | | | | - Odette Azonnadou
- Dispensaire IST, Centre de Santé Communal de Cotonou 1, Cotonou, Benin
| | | | - Lisa Avery
- grid.21613.370000 0004 1936 9609Institute for Global Public Health, Dept. Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Max Rady Medical College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Michel Alary
- grid.23856.3a0000 0004 1936 8390Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Université Laval, Québec, Canada ,grid.23856.3a0000 0004 1936 8390Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Centre de recherche du Chu de Québec – Université Laval, Québec, Canada ,grid.434819.30000 0000 8929 2775Institut National de Santé Publique, Québec, Canada
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Macharia P, Moore S, Thomann M, Mwangi P, Kombo B, King R, Lazarus L, Lorway R. The precarity of mobile loan debt and repayment among female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya: Implications for sexual health. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2184484. [PMID: 36934431 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2023.2184484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2023]
Abstract
Financial technology tools have been utilised to create readily available mobile loan platforms for urban-based, daily-wage earners in Kenya. From a financial lending perspective, this development signals greater inclusion and equality in formal bank financing systems. In this paper, however, we examine mobile loans and their repayment from the perspective of women who sell sex in Nairobi, drawing upon the qualitative findings of two community-based studies conducted in close collaboration with sex worker-led organisations serving the sexual health needs of their peers. Our findings suggest that mobile loans may undermine the financial security strategies and economic independence of sex workers, leaving these women in more precarious economic circumstances, which have been shown in other instances to have effects on sexual risk taking and vulnerability to HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Macharia
- Health Options for Young Men Against STI/HIV/AIDS, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Samantha Moore
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Matthew Thomann
- Department of Anthropology, University of Maryland at College Park, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Peninah Mwangi
- Bar Hostess Empowerment and Support Program, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bernadette Kombo
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Regine King
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Lisa Lazarus
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Robert Lorway
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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Faini D, Munseri P, Sandstrom E, Hanson C, Bakari M. Awareness, Willingness and Use of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Among Female Sex Workers Living in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:335-43. [PMID: 35838859 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03769-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Tanzania is in the final stages to roll out pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to Female Sex Workers (FSWs) so as to reduce new infections. PrEP demonstration projects support programming through gaining first experiences.We analyzed data from a cohort of 700 HIV negative FSWs in Dar-es-Salaam to determine proportions of FSWs who were aware, willing and used PrEP. We compared proportions at cohort enrolment and after 12 months. Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with PrEP use. PrEP awareness increased from 67% to 97% after 12 months. Willingness was high at both time points (98% versus 96%). Only 8% (57/700) had used PrEP. Being married/cohabiting or separated/divorced/widowed and having sex with a HIV infected partner were independently associated with PrEP use. The PrEP program should focus on scaling up access as willingness to use PrEP is high.
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Okiria AG, Achut V, McKeever E, Bolo A, Katoro J, Arkangelo GC, Ismail Michael AT, Hakim AJ. High HIV and syphilis prevalence among female sex workers and sexually exploited adolescents in Nimule town at the border of South Sudan and Uganda. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0266795. [PMID: 36652459 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV prevalence among the general population in South Sudan, the world's newest country, is estimated at 2.9% and in Nimule, a town at the border with Uganda, it is estimated at 7.5%. However, there is limited data describing the HIV epidemic among female sex workers and sexually exploited adolescents (FSW/SEA) in the country. This study was conducted using a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) among FSW/SEA aged ≥15 years in January-February 2017 who sold or exchanged sex in the last six months in Nimule. Consenting participants were administered a questionnaire and tested for HIV according to the national algorithm. Syphilis testing was conducted using SD BIOLINE Syphilis 3.0 and Rapid Plasma Reagin for confirmation. Data were analyzed in SAS and RDS-Analyst and weighted results are presented. The 409 FSW/SEA participants with a median age of 28 years (IQR 23-35) and a median age of 23 years (IQR 18-28) when they entered the world of sex work, were enrolled in the Eagle survey. Nearly all (99.2%) FSW/SEA lacked comprehensive knowledge of HIV though almost half (48.5%) talked to a peer educator or outreach worker about HIV in the last 30 days. More than half (55.3%) were previously tested for HIV. Only 46.4% used a condom during their last vaginal or anal sexual act with a client. One in five (19.8%) FSW/SEA experienced a condom breaking during vaginal or anal sex in the last six months HIV prevalence was 24.0% (95% CI: 19.4-28.5) and 9.2% (95% CI: 6.5-11.9) had active syphilis. The multivariable analysis revealed the association between HIV and active syphilis (aOR: 6.99, 95% CI: 2.23-21.89). HIV and syphilis prevalence were higher among FSW/SEA in Nimule than the general population in the country and Nimule. Specifically, the HIV prevalence was eight times higher than the general population. Our findings underscore the importance of providing HIV and syphilis testing for FSW/SEA in conjunction with comprehensive combination prevention, including comprehensive HIV information, promotion of condom use, and availing treatment services for both HIV and syphilis.
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Bedassa BB, Ebo GG, Yimam JA, Tura JB, Wariso FB, Lulseged S, Eticha GT, Wolde TK, Abrahim SA. Prevalence and factors associated with hepatitis B and C virus infections among female Sex workers in Ethiopia: Results of the national biobehavioral Survey, 2020. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269510. [PMID: 36584042 PMCID: PMC9803120 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B and C virus infections are endemic diseases in sub-Saharan Africa, the region with the highest prevalence of these infections in the world. Female sex workers are exposed to sexually transmitted infections, including hepatitis B and C, because of their high-risk sexual behavior and limited access to health services. There are no large-scale data on the prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus infections among female sex workers in Ethiopia, a critical gap in information this study aimed to fill. METHODS This was a cross-sectional, biobehavioral survey conducted from December 2019-April 2020 among 6085 female sex workers aged ≥15 years and residing in sixteen (16) regional capital cities and selected major towns of Ethiopia. Blood samples were collected from the participants for hepatitis B and C virus serological testing. The data were collected using an open data kits (ODK) software and imported into STATA version16 for analysis. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and proportions) were used to summarize data on the study variables. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the strength of association between independent variables (risk factors) and the outcome (hepatitis B and C virus infection). Adjusted Odd ratio (AOR) was used to determine independent associations, 95% confidence interval to assess precision of the estimates, and a P value ≤ 0.05 to determine statistically significant. RESULTS The prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections among the 6085 female sex workers was 2.6% [(95% CI (2.2,2.8)] and 0.5% [(95% CI (0.4,0.7)], respectively. Female sex workers who had 61-90 and ≥91 paying clients in the past six months [(AOR = 1.66; 95% CI, (0.99, 2.79); P = 0.054] and [(AOR = 1.66 95% CI, (1.11, 2.49); P = 0.013], respectively, age at first sex selling of 20-24 and >25 years [(AOR = 1.67; 95% CI, (1.14, 2.44); P = 0.009)] and [(AOR = 1.56; 95% CI (1.004, 2.43); P = 0.048)], respectively, known HIV positive status [(AOR = 1.64; 95% CI (1.03, 2.62); P = 0.036] were significantly associated with the prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection. Similarly, hepatitis C was significantly associated with, age at first sex ≤15 years and age 16-20 years [(AOR = 0.21; 95%CI (0.07,0.61); P = 0.005)] and [(AOR = 0.18; 95% CI (0.061, 0.53); P = 0.002)], respectively, known HIV positive status [(AOR = 2.85; 95%CI (1.10,7.37); P = 0.031)] and testing positive for syphilis [(AOR = 4.38; 95% CI (1.73,11.11); P = 0.002)], respectively. CONCLUSION This analysis reveals an intermediate prevalence of hepatitis B and a low prevalence of hepatitis C infection among female sex workers in Ethiopia. It also suggests that population groups like female sex workers are highly vulnerable to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and other sexually transmitted infections. There is a need for strengthening treatment and prevention interventions, including immunization services for hepatitis B vaccination, increasing HCV testing, and provision of treatment services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jemal Ayalew Yimam
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Statistics, College of Natural Science, Wollo University, Kombolcha, Ethiopia
| | | | | | - Sileshi Lulseged
- Faculty of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Nouaman MN, Becquet V, Plazy M, Coffie PA, Zébago C, Montoyo A, Anoma C, Eholié S, Dabis F, Larmarange J. Incidence of HIV infection and associated factors among female sex workers in Côte d’Ivoire, results of the ANRS 12361 PrEP-CI study using recent infection assays. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271988. [PMCID: PMC9671321 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to estimate, using an HIV Recent Infection Testing Algorithm (RITA), the HIV incidence and its associated factors among female sex workers (FSW) in Côte d’Ivoire. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016–2017 in Abidjan and San Pedro’s region among FSW aged ≥ 18 years. In addition, a sociodemographic questionnaire, HIV screening was carried out by two rapid tests. In the event of a positive result, a dried blood spot sample was taken to determine, using a RITA adapted to the Ivorian context, if it was a recent HIV infection. Results A total of 1000 FSW were surveyed with a median age of 25 years (interquartile range: 21–29 years). 39 (3.9%) tested positive for HIV. The incidence of HIV was estimated to be 2.3 per 100 person-years, with higher incidence rates among those 24 years old or less (3.0% vs. 1.9%), non-Ivorian FSW (3.2% vs. 1.9%) and those with the lowest education level (4.6% in FSW who never went to school vs. 2.6%). The incidence seemed to be associated with the sex work practice conditions: higher incidence among FSW whose usual price was less than 3.50$ (4.3% vs.1.0%), FSW who had a larger number of clients on the last day of work (6.1% in those with 7 clients or more vs. 1.8%), FSW who reported not always using condoms with their clients (8.5% vs. 1.5%) and FSW who reported agreeing to sex without a condom in exchange for a large sum of money (10.1% vs. 1.2%). Conclusion This study confirms that FSW remain highly exposed to HIV infection. Exposure to HIV is also clearly associated with certain sex-work factors and the material conditions of sex work. Efforts in the fight against HIV infection must be intensified to reduce new infections among FSW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcellin N. Nouaman
- Programme PAC-CI, CHU Treichville, Site de Recherche ANRS, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Département de Santé Publique et d’odontologie légale, UFR d’Odonto-Stomatologie, Université Félix Houphouet-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- * E-mail:
| | - Valentine Becquet
- Ined, Aubervilliers, France
- Ceped, IRD, Université de Paris, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Mélanie Plazy
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Université de Bordeaux, Inserm, IRD, Bordeaux, France
| | - Patrick A. Coffie
- Programme PAC-CI, CHU Treichville, Site de Recherche ANRS, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Département de Dermatologie et Infectiologie, UFR des Sciences Médicales, Université Félix Houphouet Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | | | | | | | - Serge Eholié
- Programme PAC-CI, CHU Treichville, Site de Recherche ANRS, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Département de Dermatologie et Infectiologie, UFR des Sciences Médicales, Université Félix Houphouet Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - François Dabis
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Université de Bordeaux, Inserm, IRD, Bordeaux, France
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Wondmagegn M, Wondimeneh Y, Getaneh A, Ayalew G. Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus, Hepatitis C Virus, Syphilis and Associated Factors Among Female Sex Workers in Gondar Town, Northwest Ethiopia. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:5915-5927. [PMID: 36254334 PMCID: PMC9569237 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s380952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a public health problem worldwide. Hepatitis B virus infection (HBV), hepatitis C virus infection (HCV), and syphilis are among the STIs. Female sex workers (FSWs) continue to be a high-risk group for STIs due to a variety of factors, including exposure to unsafe sexual practices. Therefore, this study determines the seroprevalence of HBV, HCV, Treponema palladium, and associated factors among FSWs in Gondar town, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 194 FSWs from March to June 2021 in Gondar town. Socio-demographic and behavioral data were collected using a questionnaire. Five milliliters (5mL) of venous blood was collected and tested for hepatitis B surface antigens, anti-hepatitis C antibodies, and anti-syphilis antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Logistic regression, univariate, and multivariate analyses were carried out. A p-value of < 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 194 FSWs were included in the study. The seroprevalence rates of HBV infection, HCV infection, and syphilis were 23 (11.9%), 13 (6.7%), and 22 (11.3%), respectively. All three infections were statistically associated with inconsistent condom use (AOR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.95-5.07, p = 0.03); (AOR = 10.51, 95% CI: 1.62-68.26, p = 0.014); and (AOR = 17.3, 95% CI: 4.55-65.6, p = 0.001). Whereas sex stimulant drug use (AOR = 9.4, 95% CI: 1.002-88.14), intravenous drug use (AOR = 15.53, 95% CI: 1.9-127.99, p=0.011), and sex while having a vaginal ulcer (AOR = 5.72, 95% CI: 1.13-28.9, p=0.035) were all statistically associated with HCV infection. Conclusion The prevalence of HBV infection, HCV infection, and syphilis was comparatively higher. Regular screening, health education, and other preventative strategies are advised to lower the STI burden among FSWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitikie Wondmagegn
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Yitayih Wondimeneh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Alem Getaneh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Getnet Ayalew
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia,Correspondence: Getnet Ayalew, Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia, Tel +251-918-73-00-13, Email
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Kiyingi J, Nabunya P, Bahar OS, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Tozan Y, Nabayinda J, Namuwonge F, Nsubuga E, Kizito S, Nattabi J, Nakabuye F, Kagayi J, Mwebembezi A, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Prevalence and predictors of HIV and sexually transmitted infections among vulnerable women engaged in sex work: Findings from the Kyaterekera Project in Southern Uganda. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273238. [PMID: 36174054 PMCID: PMC9522279 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women engaged in sex work (WESW) have an elevated risk of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (STI). Estimates are three times higher than the general population. Understanding the predictors of HIV and STI among WESW is crucial in developing more focused HIV and STI prevention interventions among this population. The study examined the prevalence and predictors of HIV and STI among WESW in the Southern part of Uganda. METHODOLOGY Baseline data from the Kyaterekera study involving 542 WESW (ages 18-55) recruited from 19 HIV hotspots in the greater Masaka region in Uganda was utilized. HIV and STI prevalence was estimated using blood and vaginal fluid samples bioassay. Hierarchical regression models were used to determine the predictors of HIV and STI among WESW. RESULTS Of the total sample, 41% (n = 220) were found to be HIV positive; and 10.5% (n = 57) tested positive for at least one of the three STI (Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis and Trichomonas vaginalis) regardless of their HIV status. Older age (b = 0.09, 95%CI = 0.06, 0.13, p≤0.001), lower levels of education (b = -0.79, 95%CI = -1.46, -0.11, p≤0.05), fewer numbers of children in the household (b = -0.18, 95%CI = -0.36, -0.01), p≤0.05), location (i.e., fishing village (b = 0.51, 95%CI = 0.16, 0.85, p≤0.01) or small town (b = -0.60, 95%CI = -0.92, -0.28, p≤0.001)), drug use (b = 0.58, 95%CI = 0.076, 1.08, p≤0.05) and financial self-efficacy (b = 0.05, 95%CI = -0.10, 0.00, p≤0.05), were associated with the risk of HIV infections among WESW. Domestic violence attitudes (b = -0.24, 95%CI = -0.42, -0.07, p≤0.01) and financial distress (b = -0.07, 95%CI = -0.14, -0.004, p≤0.05) were associated with the risk of STI infection among WESW. CONCLUSION Study findings show a high prevalence of HIV among WESW compared to the general women population. Individual and family level, behavioural and economic factors were associated with increased HIV and STI infection among WESW. Therefore, there is a need for WESW focused HIV and STI risk reduction and economic empowerment interventions to reduce these burdens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kiyingi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Reach the Youth Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Yesim Tozan
- College of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Fatuma Nakabuye
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | | | | | - Susan S. Witte
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
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Abdella S, Demissie M, Worku A, Dheresa M, Berhane Y. HIV prevalence and associated factors among female sex workers in Ethiopia, east Africa: A cross-sectional study using a respondent-driven sampling technique. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 51:101540. [PMID: 35813094 PMCID: PMC9256839 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV acquisition among Female Sex Workers (FSWs) is 30 times higher than the acquisition rate among females in the respective general population. A higher HIV burden in FSWs challenges the prevention and control of the virus in other population groups. However, there is inadequate evidence on the burden of HIV among FSWs in Ethiopia. This study was conducted to assess the extent of HIV and associated factors among FSWs in the country. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study that involved a total of 6,085 FSWs. The participants were selected using a respondent-driven sampling technique (RDS). FSWs who lived at the study sites for at least a month before the study time were considered eligible for recruitment. The study was conducted from January 01 to June 30, 2020 in 16 cities across Ethiopia. A mixed-effect logistic regression model was applied to determine factors associated with HIV positivity. FINDINGS The pooled HIV prevalence among FSWs in this study was 18·7% (95% CI: 17·8, 19·7) with considerable variation across cities. The highest HIV prevalence was observed in Bahir Dar city, 28·2% (95% CI: 23·9, 33.0) and the lowest was seen in Shashemene city, 14.0% (95% CI: 10·2, 18·9). The odds of HIV positivity in FSWs was associated with being older than 35 years of age (AOR = 8·1; 95% CI: 6·1, 10·3), reactive for Treponema Pallidum (AOR = 2·6; 95% CI: 1·0, 3·4), being widowed (OR = 2·2; 95% CI: 1·6, 2·9), not able to read and write (OR = 2·0; 95% CI: 1·5, 2·4), incidence of condom breakage (OR = 1·5; 95% CI: 1·2, 1·7) and having a history of STIs (OR = 1·3; 95% CI: 1·1, 1·6). INTERPRETATION One in five FSWs was HIV positive. HIV prevalence was higher in the older age groups and in those who were positive for Treponema Pallidum (Syphilis). The findings indicated the importance of strengthening HIV prevention and control in FSWs to achieve the national goal to eliminate HIV by 2030. FUNDING The study was supported by The Ethiopian Ministry of Health through the Federal HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Office.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saro Abdella
- HIV and TB Research directorate, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Swaziland Street, Ethiopia
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
- Corresponding author.
| | - Meaza Demissie
- Department of Global Health and Health Policy, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Worku
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Sefere Selam Campus, Ethiopia
| | - Merga Dheresa
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Viljoen L, Bock P. In-depth knowledge to guide services for female sex workers. The Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e739-e740. [DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00217-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Mbonye M, Siu G, Seeley J. The meaning of fatherhood to men in relationships with female sex workers in Kampala, Uganda: The struggle to model the traditional parameters of fatherhood and masculinity. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273298. [PMID: 36044520 PMCID: PMC9432681 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Many women who engage in sex work in sub-Saharan Africa become pregnant, often unintentionally. There is limited attention paid to the experiences of fathers of children born to women engaged in sex work. We examine the meaning of fatherhood to these men, the significance of children, and how they navigate the economic and cultural challenges of fatherhood in this context. Analysis is based on ethnographic data from 13 men who identified as intimate long-term partners of female sex workers (FSW) in Kampala City, Uganda. Our findings illustrate how men who have children with FSW struggled to model the traditional parameters of fatherhood and masculinity. We found that men who had children with FSW faced hurdles fitting within the social construction of ideal fatherhood. Accepting fatherhood often started with doubts over the pregnancy because of the multiple partnerships of women. Men who only saw themselves as clients struggled to adjust to being fathers because of their perceptions of the social implications of fathering a child with a FSW. Integration of mothers who were also sex workers into the man's extended family was a challenge because of the fear of negative reactions from family members. However, when men accepted their roles as fathers, they started seeing value in their children. Due to poverty, most of the men fell short of the societal measures of masculinity, but children transformed their social status before their society and family. The provider role often used to define good fathering was a challenge for men. However, the financial support from FSW partners softened the burden and facilitated the creation of a family environment constructed to the perceived standards of the broader society. Our findings provide insights into the state of parenting among FSW and their partners which can guide interventions that are tailored to their unique circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Mbonye
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Godfrey Siu
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Global Health and Development Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Seeley
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Global Health and Development Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Hakim AJ, Ogwal M, Doshi RH, Kiyingi H, Sande E, Serwadda D, Musinguzi G, Standish J, Hladik W. At the intersection of sexual and reproductive health and HIV services: use of moderately effective family planning among female sex workers in Kampala, Uganda. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:646. [PMID: 35978285 PMCID: PMC9382809 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04977-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Female sex workers are vulnerable to HIV, sexually transmitted diseases, and unintended pregnancies; however, the literature on female sex workers (FSW) focuses primarily on HIV and is limited regarding these other health issues.
Methods We conducted a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) survey during April-December 2012 to characterize the reproductive health of and access to contraceptives FSW in Kampala, Uganda. Eligibility criteria included age ≥ 15 years, residence in greater Kampala, and having sold sex to men in ≤ 6 months. Data were analyzed using RDS-Analyst. Survey logistic regression was used in SAS. Results We enrolled 1,497 FSW with a median age of 27 years. Almost all FSW had been pregnant at least once. An estimated 33.8% of FSW were currently not using any form of family planning (FP) to prevent pregnancy; 52.7% used at least moderately effective FP. Among those using FP methods, injectable contraception was the most common form of FP used (55.4%), followed by condoms (19.7%), oral contraception (18.1%), and implants (3.7%). HIV prevalence was 31.4%, syphilis prevalence was 6.2%, and 89.8% had at least one symptom of a sexually transmitted disease in the last six months. Using at least a moderately effective method of FP was associated with accessing sexually transmitted disease treatment in a stigma-free environment in the last six months (aOR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.1–2.4), giving birth to 2–3 children (aOR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.4–4.8) or 4–5 children (aOR: 2.9, 95% CI: 1.4–5.9). It is plausible that those living with HIV are also less likely than those without it to be using a moderately effective method of FP (aOR: 0.7, 95% CI: 0.5–1.0). Conclusions The provision of integrated HIV and sexual and reproductive health services in a non-stigmatizing environment has the potential to facilitate increased health service uptake by FSW and decrease missed opportunities for service provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avi J Hakim
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, NE, US1-2, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
| | - Moses Ogwal
- School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Reena H Doshi
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, NE, US1-2, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Herbert Kiyingi
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Enos Sande
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Serwadda
- School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Jonathan Standish
- Department of Counseling and Psychological Services, Georgia State University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Wolfgang Hladik
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, NE, US1-2, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
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Knight J, Kaul R, Mishra S. Risk heterogeneity in compartmental HIV transmission models of ART as prevention in Sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review. Epidemics 2022; 40:100608. [PMID: 35843152 DOI: 10.1016/j.epidem.2022.100608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transmission models provide complementary evidence to clinical trials about the potential population-level incidence reduction attributable to ART (ART prevention impact). Different modelling assumptions about risk heterogeneity may influence projected ART prevention impacts. We sought to review representations of risk heterogeneity in compartmental HIV transmission models applied to project ART prevention impacts in Sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS We systematically reviewed studies published before January 2020 that used non-linear compartmental models of sexual HIV transmission to simulate ART prevention impacts in Sub-Saharan Africa. We summarized data on model structure/assumptions (factors) related to risk and intervention heterogeneity, and explored multivariate ecological associations of ART prevention impacts with modelled factors. RESULTS Of 1384 search hits, 94 studies were included. 64 studies considered sexual activity stratification and 39 modelled at least one key population. 21 studies modelled faster/slower ART cascade transitions (HIV diagnosis, ART initiation, or cessation) by risk group, including 8 with faster and 4 with slower cascade transitions among key populations versus the wider population. In ecological analysis of 125 scenarios from 40 studies (subset without combination intervention), scenarios with risk heterogeneity that included turnover of higher risk groups were associated with smaller ART prevention benefits. Modelled differences in ART cascade across risk groups also influenced the projected ART benefits, including: ART prioritized to key populations was associated with larger ART prevention benefits. Of note, zero of these 125 scenarios considered lower ART coverage among key populations. CONCLUSION Among compartmental transmission models applied to project ART prevention impacts in Sub-Saharan Africa, representations of risk heterogeneity and projected impacts varied considerably. Inclusion/exclusion of risk heterogeneity with turnover, and intervention heterogeneity across risk groups could influence the projected impacts of ART scale-up. These findings highlight a need to capture risk heterogeneity with turnover and cascade heterogeneity when projecting ART prevention impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse Knight
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sharmistha Mishra
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Beksinska A, Nyariki E, Kabuti R, Kungu M, Babu H, Shah P, Nyabuto C, Okumu M, Mahero A, Ngurukiri P, Jama Z, Irungu E, Adhiambo W, Muthoga P, Kaul R, Seeley J, Weiss HA, Kimani J, Beattie TS. Harmful Alcohol and Drug Use Is Associated with Syndemic Risk Factors among Female Sex Workers in Nairobi, Kenya. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:7294. [PMID: 35742558 PMCID: PMC9223659 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background: Female Sex Workers (FSWs) are at high risk of harmful alcohol and other drug use. We use quantitative data to describe the prevalence of alcohol and other drug use and identify associated occupational and socio-economic risk factors, and aim to elucidate patterns of alcohol and drug use through information drawn from qualitative data. Methods: Maisha Fiti was a mixed-method longitudinal study conducted in 2019 among a random sample of FSWs in Nairobi, Kenya. We used baseline date from the behavioural−biological survey, which included the WHO Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test that measures harmful alcohol and other drug use in the past three months (moderate/high risk score: >11 for alcohol; >4 for other drugs). In-depth interviews were conducted with 40 randomly selected FSWs. Findings: Of 1003 participants, 29.9% (95%CI 27.0−32.6%) reported harmful (moderate/high risk) alcohol use, 21.5% harmful amphetamine use (95%CI 19.1−24.1%) and 16.9% harmful cannabis use (95%CI 14.7−19.2%). Quantitative analysis found that harmful alcohol, cannabis and amphetamine use were associated with differing risk factors including higher Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) scores, street homelessness, food insecurity (recent hunger), recent violence from clients, reduced condom use, depression/anxiety and police arrest. Qualitative interviews found that childhood neglect and violence were drivers of entry into sex work and alcohol use, and that alcohol and cannabis helped women cope with sex work. Conclusions: There is a need for individual and structural-level interventions, tailored for FSWs, to address harmful alcohol and other drug use and associated syndemic risks including ACEs, violence and sexual risk behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Beksinska
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, UK; (P.S.); (J.S.); (T.S.B.)
| | - Emily Nyariki
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Rhoda Kabuti
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Mary Kungu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Hellen Babu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Pooja Shah
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, UK; (P.S.); (J.S.); (T.S.B.)
| | - The Maisha Fiti Study Champions
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Chrispo Nyabuto
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Monica Okumu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Anne Mahero
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Pauline Ngurukiri
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Zaina Jama
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Erastus Irungu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Wendy Adhiambo
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Peter Muthoga
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada;
| | - Janet Seeley
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, UK; (P.S.); (J.S.); (T.S.B.)
| | - Helen A. Weiss
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK;
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, College of Health Sciences, Nairobi P.O. Box 30197-00100, Kenya; (E.N.); (R.K.); (M.K.); (H.B.); (C.N.); (M.O.); (A.M.); (P.N.); (Z.J.); (E.I.); (W.A.); (P.M.); (J.K.)
| | - Tara S. Beattie
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, UK; (P.S.); (J.S.); (T.S.B.)
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Sensoy Bahar O, Nabunya P, Nabayinda J, Witte SS, Kiyingi J, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Filippone P, Yang LS, Nakigudde J, Tozan Y, Ssewamala FM. "I expected little, although I learned a lot": perceived benefits of participating in HIV risk reduction sessions among women engaged in sex work in Uganda. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:162. [PMID: 35562821 PMCID: PMC9100307 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01759-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global HIV burden remains a public health concern. Women engaged in sex work (WESW) are at higher risk of acquiring HIV compared to the general adult population. Uganda reports high rates of HIV prevalence among WESW. While WESW in Uganda have long been the subject of surveillance studies, they have not been targeted by theory-informed HIV prevention intervention approaches. In this study, we explored the perceived benefits of an evidence-based HIV risk reduction intervention that was implemented as part of a combination intervention tested in a clinical trial in Uganda. METHODS As part of a larger randomized clinical trial, we conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with 20 WESW selected using a stratified purposive sampling. All interviews were conducted in Luganda, language spoken in the study area, and audio-recorded. They were transcribed verbatim and translated to English. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. RESULTS WESW's narratives focused on: (1) condom use; (2) alcohol/drug consumption; (3) PrEP use; (4) "handling" customers; and (5) "massaging" customers. WESW agreed that male condom was one of the important learning points for them and planned to continue using them while female condoms were received with mixed reactions. Many women appreciated receiving information about the risks of consuming alcohol and drugs, and discussed how they reduced/ eliminated their consumption. PrEP information was appreciated though identified by fewer WESW. Handling a client was discussed as a helpful strategy for safer sex through improved ability to convince customers to use condoms or avoiding sex. Massaging was also beneficial to avoid penetrative sex, but similar to female condom, massaging also yielded mixed perceptions. CONCLUSION WESW found the intervention beneficial and described ways in which it improved their ability to engage in safer sex and stay healthy. The fact that WESW identified other strategies beyond condom use as helpful underlines the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to behavioral interventions targeting HIV prevention even when combined with other interventions. Additionally, WESW's narratives suggest that incorporating the tenets of social cognitive theory and harm reduction approaches in HIV prevention among this population can result in risk behavior change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Prema Filippone
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York City, NY, USA
| | | | - Janet Nakigudde
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Yesim Tozan
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Wanjiru R, Nyariki E, Babu H, Lwingi I, Liku J, Jama Z, Kung'u M, Ngurukiri P, Nyamweya C, Shah P, Okumu M, Weiss H, Kaul R, Beattie TS, Kimani J, Seeley J. Beaten but not down! Exploring resilience among female sex workers (FSWs) in Nairobi, Kenya. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:965. [PMID: 35562733 PMCID: PMC9107275 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13387-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Kenya sex work is illegal and those engaged in the trade are stigmatized and marginalized. We explored how female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya, utilize different resources to navigate the negative consequences of the work they do. METHODS Qualitative data were collected in October 2019 from 40 FSWs who were randomly sampled from 1003 women enrolled in the Maisha Fiti study, a 3-year longitudinal mixed-methods study exploring the relationship between HIV risk and violence and mental health. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and translated. Data were thematically coded and analyzed using Nvivo 12. RESULTS Participants' age range was 18-45 years. Before entry into sex work, all but one had at least one child. Providing for the children was expressed as the main reason the women joined sex work. All the women grew up in adverse circumstances such as poor financial backgrounds and some reported sexual and physical abuse as children. They also continued to experience adversity in their adulthood including intimate partner violence as well as violence at the workplace. All the participants were noted to have utilised the resources they have to build resilience and cope with these adversities while remaining hopeful for the future. Motherhood was mentioned by most as the reason they have remained resilient. Coming together in groups and engaging with HIV prevention and treatment services were noted as important factors too in building resilience. CONCLUSION Despite the adverse experiences throughout the lives of FSWs, resilience was a key theme that emerged from this study. A holistic approach is needed in addressing the health needs of female sex workers. Encouraging FSWs to come together and advocating together for their needs is a key resource from which resilience and forbearance can grow. Upstream prevention through strengthening of education systems and supporting girls to stay in school and complete their secondary and/or tertiary education would help them gain training and skills, providing them with options for income generation during their adult lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhoda Wanjiru
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Emily Nyariki
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hellen Babu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ibrahim Lwingi
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jennifer Liku
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Zaina Jama
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mary Kung'u
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Polly Ngurukiri
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Pooja Shah
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Monica Okumu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helen Weiss
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London, UK
| | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tara S Beattie
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Janet Seeley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Macleod CI, Reynolds JH, Delate R. Women Who Sell Sex in Eastern and Southern Africa: A Scoping Review of Non-Barrier Contraception, Pregnancy and Abortion. Public Health Rev 2022; 43:1604376. [PMID: 35646420 PMCID: PMC9131513 DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2022.1604376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: There is a need to hone reproductive health (RH) services for women who sell sex (WSS). The aim of this review was to collate findings on non-barrier contraception, pregnancies, and abortion amongst WSS in Eastern and Southern African (ESA). Methods: A scoping review methodology was employed. Inclusion criteria were: 1) empirical papers from 2) ESA, 3) published since 2010, and 4) addressing WSS in relation to 5) the identified RH issues. Results: Reports of rates of non-barrier contraceptive usage varied from 15% to 76%, of unintended pregnancy from 24% to 91%, and of abortion from 11% to 48%. Cross-cutting factors were alcohol use, violence, health systems problems, and socio-economic issues. Pregnancy desire was associated with having a non-paying partner. Barriers to accessing, and delaying, antenatal care were reported as common. Targeted programmes were reported as promoting RH amongst WSS. Conclusion: Programmes should be contextually relevant, based on local patterns, individual, interpersonal and systemic barriers. Targeted approaches should be implemented in conjunction with improvement of public health services. Linked HIV and RH services, and community empowerment approaches are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catriona Ida Macleod
- Critical Studies in Sexualities and Reproduction, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa
| | | | - Richard Delate
- 2gether 4 SRHR, United Nations Population Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Ongeri L, Moshi V, Denckla CA, Bosire R, Singa B, Otieno P, Maingi C, Ouma L, Omolo D, Manduku V. Prevalence of Substance Use and Its Association with Sociodemographic and Behavioral Factors among Women Who Conduct Sex Work in Kenya. J Psychoactive Drugs 2022; 55:224-232. [PMID: 35311477 PMCID: PMC9869467 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2022.2053614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSWs) in sub-Saharan Africa are a marginalized group with an increased morbidity risk. Psychoactive substance use among this group is common and increases the risk of adverse health consequences. The type of substance used, extent, and nature of use varies with different settings and regions. We examine the use of specific psychoactive substances among FSWs residing in an urban informal settlement in Nairobi. This cross-sectional study was conducted between April and August 2017. Structured questionnaires were administered in face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were undertaken to examine prevalence, patterns, and factors associated with use of specific substances. Out of 301 FSWs, 98% reported current psychoactive substance use. The most used substance was alcohol with 95.6% of the study population reporting use in the past year. Of these, 151 (50.2%) met criteria for very high-risk drinkers. Reported current use was 61.5% for cannabis, 47.2% for khat, and 30.9% for tobacco. Factors independently associated with hazardous and harmful alcohol use included earning a higher monthly income (>USD50) and disclosure of sex work to close family and friends. There is an urgent need for preventive and curative interventions to address the high prevalence of substance use among FSW residing in high-risk urban informal settlements in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnet Ongeri
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Clinical Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Vincent Moshi
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Clinical Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Rose Bosire
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Clinical Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Benson Singa
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Clinical Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Phelgona Otieno
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Clinical Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Charity Maingi
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Clinical Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linet Ouma
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Clinical Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Danvers Omolo
- United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, Juba, South Sudan
| | - Veronica Manduku
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Clinical Research, Nairobi, Kenya
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Malama K, Price MA, Sagaon-Teyssier L, Parker R, Wall KM, Tichacek A, Sharkey T, Kilembe W, Inambao M, Spire B, Allen S. Evolution of Condom Use Among a 5-Year Cohort of Female Sex Workers in Zambia. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:470-7. [PMID: 34333718 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03403-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Observing sexual behaviour change over time could help develop behavioural HIV prevention interventions for female sex workers in Zambia, where these interventions are lacking. We investigated the evolution of consistent condom use among female sex workers and their clients and steady partners. Participants were recruited into an HIV incidence cohort from 2012 to 2017. At each visit, women received HIV counselling and testing, screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and free condoms. Our outcome was reported consistent (100%) condom use in the previous month with steady partners, repeat clients, and non-repeat clients. Consistent condom use at baseline was highest with non-repeat clients (36%) followed by repeat clients (27%) and steady partners (17%). Consistent condom use between baseline and Month 42 increased by 35% with steady partners, 39% with repeat clients and 41% with non-repeat clients. Access to condoms, HIV/STI counselling and testing promoted positive sexual behaviour change.
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Daka D, Hailemeskel G, Fenta DA. Prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus infection and associated factors among female sex workers using respondent-driven sampling in Hawassa City, Southern Ethiopia. BMC Microbiol 2022; 22:37. [PMID: 35094675 PMCID: PMC8802412 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-022-02444-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Female sex workers (FSWs) are a marginalized group notoriously having limited healthcare access and poor-quality care. Inevitably, they are vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections including hepatitis B virus. However; Hepatitis B virus infection is one of the most serious infections and major public health problem considered to be at soaring risk for transmission and acquisition of the infection. Hence, this study was aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of HBV infections among FSWs in southern Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from November to February 2019 at Hawassa city in ISHDO confidential clinic among 383 FSWs. Respondent-driven consecutive sampling was used to select study participants using a standardized questionnaire. Blood sample was collected and viral surface antigen was detected using ELISA from separated serum. Data were entered to SPSS version 21.0. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were used. Result The overall prevalence of FSWs who were tested for HBV using ELISA was 35(9.2%) (95% CI: 6.3–12.1). Among 381 FSWs 249(65.4%) were stayed for 2–5 years in sexual work and 240(63%) of them were used condom consistently during sexual practice. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, FSWs who didn’t use condom were six and two times more risk full to acquire HBV than those who used condom commonly (AOR = 6.38, CI 2.04–18.51) and condom breakage (AOR = 2.10, CI 1.95–4.65), during sexual practice respectively. Similarly, use of stimulants (AOR = 3.25, CI 1.59–18.63), previous history of STI (AOR = 2.15, CI 1.02–6.93), genital ulcer (AOR = 4.64, CI 1.31–11.35), number of sexual partners (AOR = 3.25, CI 1.59–7.47), sex during menses (AOR = 5.85, CI (1.29–21.44), sexual assault (AOR = 2.93, CI 1.23–9.01), sharp material sharing, (AOR = 4.98, CI 1.34–10.95) and history of abortion, (AOR = 2.46, CI 1.18, 12.19), were statistically associated with HBV infection. Factors such as age, residence, and alcohol consumption were not associated with HBV infection. Conclusion The prevalence of HBV infection in this study was relatively high compared to the general population. Factors like sociodemographic, behavioral, and previous history-related information were associated with HBV infection shows the need for ongoing screening of high-risk population to inform planning for vaccination and preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deresse Daka
- School of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia.
| | - Getahun Hailemeskel
- Department of Laboratory Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Demissie Assegu Fenta
- School of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
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Yeo EJ, Hlongwane K, Otwombe K, Hopkins KL, Variava E, Martinson N, Strathdee SA, Coetzee J, Milovanovic M. Key risk factors for substance use among female sex workers in Soweto and Klerksdorp, South Africa: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0261855. [PMID: 35061728 PMCID: PMC8782394 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sex workers in South Africa experience high levels of trauma and mental health issues, but little is known about their drug and alcohol use. This study assessed the prevalence of substance use and its key risk factors amongst female sex workers (FSWs) at two sites in South Africa. METHODS Two cross-sectional studies were conducted, in Soweto and Klerksdorp, South Africa. Using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) 508 FSWs in Soweto and 156 in Klerksdorp were enrolled. A study-specific survey was used to collect social and demographic information, substance use, mental ill-health, and HIV status. Raw and RDS-adjusted data were analyzed using Chi-squared tests of association. Weighted and unweighted Poisson regression models were used to assess key risk factors for alcohol and drug use at both univariate and multivariate levels. RESULTS Of the 664 FSWs, 56.2% were binge drinkers and 29.4% reported using drugs within the last year. Living in a home with regular food (RR: 1.2597, 95% CI: 1.1009-1.4413) and being HIV positive (RR: 1.1678, 95% CI: 1.0227-1.3334) were associated with a higher risk of binge drinking. Having symptoms suggestive of post-traumatic stress disorder (RR: 1.1803, 95% CI: 1.0025-1.3895) and past year physical/sexual abuse from either intimate (RR: 1.3648, 95% CI: 1.1522-1.6167) or non-intimate partners (RR: 1.3910, 95% CI: 1.1793-1.6407) were associated with a higher risk of drug use. DISCUSSION In conclusion, our findings demonstrate a high prevalence of alcohol and drug use among FSWs in Soweto and Klerksdorp with site-specific contextual dynamics driving substance use. Site differences highlight the importance of tailoring site-specific substance use harm mitigation for this key population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellis Jaewon Yeo
- Harvard Global Health Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Khuthadzo Hlongwane
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of The Witwatersrand, Soweto, South Africa
| | - Kennedy Otwombe
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of The Witwatersrand, Soweto, South Africa
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of The Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Ebrahim Variava
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of The Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Neil Martinson
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of The Witwatersrand, Soweto, South Africa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Klerksdorp Tshepong Hospital Complex, University of The Witwatersrand, Matlosana, South Africa
- Johns Hopkins University Center for TB Research, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Steffanie A. Strathdee
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, United States of America
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jenny Coetzee
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of The Witwatersrand, Soweto, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- African Potential Management Consultancy, Kyalami, South Africa
| | - Minja Milovanovic
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of The Witwatersrand, Soweto, South Africa
- African Potential Management Consultancy, Kyalami, South Africa
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Brody C, Chhoun P, Tuot S, Fehrenbacher AE, Moran A, Swendeman D, Yi S. A Mobile Intervention to Link Young Female Entertainment Workers in Cambodia to Health and Gender-Based Violence Services: Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2022. [PMID: 34982716 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-154027/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female entertainment workers (FEWs) in Cambodia experience a greater prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), psychological distress, substance abuse, and gender-based violence (GBV) than the general female population. Reaching FEWs with health education and linking them to services has been difficult because of their hidden and stigmatized status. OBJECTIVE This study evaluated the efficacy of the Mobile Link intervention in improving FEWs' health by engaging and connecting them to existing HIV, sexual and reproductive health, and GBV services. METHODS A randomized controlled trial was conducted between March 2018 and June 2019 in the capital city and 3 other provinces in Cambodia. FEWs in the intervention arm received automated twice-weekly Short Message Service messages and voice messages with health information and direct links to outreach workers. The control group received the existing standard care, including free HIV and STI counseling and testing and a toll-free helpline staffed by trained counselors. We used a stratified random sampling method to select participants from 5 study sites in the 4 selected provinces. Initially, we randomly selected 600 participants from a list of 4000 FEWs by age group (18-24 and 25-30 years) and study site using a random number generator and enrolled them in person. The primary outcome measures included self-reported HIV and STI testing, condom use, and contraceptive use assessed through a face-to-face structured interview. We also measured secondary outcomes, including contact with outreach workers, escorted referral service use, forced drinking, and GBV experiences. Intervention effects were modeled using repeated measures, multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression. RESULTS A total of 1118 participants were recruited and enrolled in the study. We included 218 FEWs in the intervention arm and 170 FEWs in the control arm in the per protocol analyses after removing 730 dropouts. Evidence of positive intervention effects was detected for the following secondary outcomes: contacting an outreach worker (at 30 weeks: adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.29, 95% CI 1.28-8.47), receiving an escorted referral (at 30 weeks: AOR 2.86, 95% CI 1.09-7.52; at 60 weeks: AOR 8.15, 95% CI 1.65-40.25), and never being forced to drink at work (at 60 weeks: AOR 3.95, 95% CI 1.62-9.60). Over time, no significant differences between intervention and control groups were observed for any primary outcomes in the fully adjusted models. CONCLUSIONS The Mobile Link intervention effectively connected FEWs with outreach workers and escorted referrals but did not show an effect on primary outcomes. Reduced forced drinking at work was also significantly more extensive in the intervention group than in the control group. Longer-term messaging may increase access to services and impact FEWs' health outcomes in the future. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03117842; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03117842. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s13063-018-2614-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carinne Brody
- Public Health Program, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, United States
| | - Pheak Chhoun
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Sovannary Tuot
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Department of Community and Global Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Anne E Fehrenbacher
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Alexander Moran
- Department of Epidemiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Dallas Swendeman
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Siyan Yi
- Public Health Program, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, United States
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
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41
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Brody C, Chhoun P, Tuot S, Fehrenbacher AE, Moran A, Swendeman D, Yi S. A Mobile Intervention to Link Young Female Entertainment Workers in Cambodia to Health and Gender-Based Violence Services: Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e27696. [PMID: 34982716 PMCID: PMC8767471 DOI: 10.2196/27696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Female entertainment workers (FEWs) in Cambodia experience a greater prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), psychological distress, substance abuse, and gender-based violence (GBV) than the general female population. Reaching FEWs with health education and linking them to services has been difficult because of their hidden and stigmatized status. Objective This study evaluated the efficacy of the Mobile Link intervention in improving FEWs’ health by engaging and connecting them to existing HIV, sexual and reproductive health, and GBV services. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted between March 2018 and June 2019 in the capital city and 3 other provinces in Cambodia. FEWs in the intervention arm received automated twice-weekly Short Message Service messages and voice messages with health information and direct links to outreach workers. The control group received the existing standard care, including free HIV and STI counseling and testing and a toll-free helpline staffed by trained counselors. We used a stratified random sampling method to select participants from 5 study sites in the 4 selected provinces. Initially, we randomly selected 600 participants from a list of 4000 FEWs by age group (18-24 and 25-30 years) and study site using a random number generator and enrolled them in person. The primary outcome measures included self-reported HIV and STI testing, condom use, and contraceptive use assessed through a face-to-face structured interview. We also measured secondary outcomes, including contact with outreach workers, escorted referral service use, forced drinking, and GBV experiences. Intervention effects were modeled using repeated measures, multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression. Results A total of 1118 participants were recruited and enrolled in the study. We included 218 FEWs in the intervention arm and 170 FEWs in the control arm in the per protocol analyses after removing 730 dropouts. Evidence of positive intervention effects was detected for the following secondary outcomes: contacting an outreach worker (at 30 weeks: adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.29, 95% CI 1.28-8.47), receiving an escorted referral (at 30 weeks: AOR 2.86, 95% CI 1.09-7.52; at 60 weeks: AOR 8.15, 95% CI 1.65-40.25), and never being forced to drink at work (at 60 weeks: AOR 3.95, 95% CI 1.62-9.60). Over time, no significant differences between intervention and control groups were observed for any primary outcomes in the fully adjusted models. Conclusions The Mobile Link intervention effectively connected FEWs with outreach workers and escorted referrals but did not show an effect on primary outcomes. Reduced forced drinking at work was also significantly more extensive in the intervention group than in the control group. Longer-term messaging may increase access to services and impact FEWs’ health outcomes in the future. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03117842; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03117842 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s13063-018-2614-7
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Affiliation(s)
- Carinne Brody
- Public Health Program, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, United States
| | - Pheak Chhoun
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Sovannary Tuot
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.,Department of Community and Global Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Anne E Fehrenbacher
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Alexander Moran
- Department of Epidemiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Dallas Swendeman
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Siyan Yi
- Public Health Program, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, United States.,KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.,Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
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Daka D, Hailemeskel G, Fenta DA. Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus and Associated Factors Among Female Sex Workers Using Respondent-Driven Sampling in Hawassa City, Ethiopia. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:4301-4311. [PMID: 34707375 PMCID: PMC8542596 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s332333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sex workers (FSWs) are a marginalized group having limited healthcare access and poor-quality care. Inevitably, they are vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections including hepatitis B virus. It is one of the most serious and major public health problems, with an increased risk of transmission and acquisition of the infection. Hence, this study was aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of HBV infection among FSWs in southern Ethiopia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from November to February 2019 at Hawassa city among ISHDO confidential clinics among 383 FSWs using respondent-driven consecutive sampling techniques to select study participants using a standardized questionnaire. The blood samples were collected to detect viral surface antigen using ELISA. Data were entered into SPSS version 21. Descriptive and logistic regression analysis was used. RESULTS The overall prevalence of HBV was 35 (9.2%) (95% CI=6.3-12.1). Among 381 FSWs, 249 (65.4%) of them had stayed for 2-5 years in sexual work. A total of 240 (63%) of them used condoms consistently during sexual practice. In multivariate analysis, FSWs who did not use a condom during sexual practice were 6-times more at risk than those who used a condom (AOR=6.38, CI=2.04-18.51). Condom breakage (AOR=2.10, CI=1.95-4.65), use of stimulants (AOR=3.25, CI=1.59-18.63), history of STI (AOR=2.15, CI=1.02-6.93), and genital ulcer (AOR=4.64, CI=1.31-11.35), number of sexual partners (AOR=3.25, CI=1.59-7.47), sex during menses (AOR=5.85, CI=1.29-21.44), sexual assault (AOR=2.93, CI=1.23-9.01), sharp material sharing (AOR=4.98, CI=1.34-10.95), and history of abortion (AOR=2.46, CI=1.18-12.19) were statistically associated with HBV infection. CONCLUSION The prevalence of HBV infection in this study was relatively high compared to the general population. Factors like sociodemographic, behavioral, and previous information were associated with HBV infection. There is a need for ongoing screening of this high-risk population to inform planning for vaccination and preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deresse Daka
- School of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, College of Medicine and Health Science Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Getahun Hailemeskel
- School of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, College of Medicine and Health Science Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
| | - Demissie Assegu Fenta
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, College of Medicine and Health Science Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama, Ethiopia
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Rossouw J, Schwartz S, Rao A, Mcingana M, Young K, Hausler H, Baral S. Exploring the Association Between Depression and Social and Biobehavioral HIV Risk Factors Among Female Sex Workers in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, South Africa. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2021; 37:666-675. [PMID: 33472528 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2020.0233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of depression among female sex workers (FSW) in an urban coastal city in South Africa, and to explore the relationship between depression and HIV-related social and biobehavioral determinants. A cross-sectional respondent-driven sampling study was conducted with FSW (n = 410), including a sociobehavioral questionnaire, PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) based assessment of depression, and biological testing for HIV and syphilis. The prevalence of HIV in the sample was 64.1%. The estimated prevalence of depression was 28.8%. Depression was associated with social vulnerability such as living alone [adjusted prevalence ratio 1.82, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.15-2.90] and food insecurity (aPR 2.19, 95% CI 1.42-3.38). A positive syphilis test result (aPR 1.46, 95% CI 1.02-2.09) and self-reported sexually transmitted disease symptoms (aPR 1.78, 95% CI 1.29-2.46) was associated with depression, but self-reported condom use and HIV status was not. FSW were also less likely to disclose their occupational status to health care providers (aPR 0.61, 95% CI 0.42-0.89) or undergo sexually transmitted infection screening in the last 12 months if they are depressed (aPR 0.64, 95% CI 0.43-0.95). The results demonstrate that the prevalence of depression is high among FSW and that depressive symptoms are associated with social covariates and biobehavioral HIV risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sheree Schwartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Amrita Rao
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | | | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Malama K, Sagaon Teyssier L, Parker R, Tichacek A, Sharkey T, Kilembe W, Inambao M, Price MA, Spire B, Allen S. Client-Initiated Violence Against Zambian Female Sex Workers: Prevalence and Associations With Behavior, Environment, and Sexual History. J Interpers Violence 2021; 36:NP9483-NP9500. [PMID: 31268388 PMCID: PMC8366593 DOI: 10.1177/0886260519860083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Violence against women is a known risk factor for HIV and affects female sex workers (FSW) in sub-Saharan Africa. Little is known about the magnitude and determinants of violence against FSW in Zambia, where HIV and gender-based violence prevalence are high. We conducted a cross-sectional study, using multivariable logistic regression, to determine the prevalence and correlates of client-initiated physical violence among 419 FSW in Lusaka and Ndola. The prevalence of client-initiated physical violence was 39%. The odds of violence were higher for FSW who: lived in Lusaka, recruited clients from the street, serviced clients in the clients' homes, had a physically forced sexual debut, and had a higher client volume. Our results call for safer working spaces for FSW and violence prevention interventions for their male clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalonde Malama
- Aix-Marseille Université, APHM, INSERM, IRD, Sciences Économiques & Sociales de la Santé et Traitement de l’Information Médicale (SESSTIM), Marseille, France
- Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (ORS PACA), Marseille, France
| | - Luis Sagaon Teyssier
- Aix-Marseille Université, APHM, INSERM, IRD, Sciences Économiques & Sociales de la Santé et Traitement de l’Information Médicale (SESSTIM), Marseille, France
- Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (ORS PACA), Marseille, France
| | - Rachel Parker
- Rwanda Zambia HIV Research Group, Emory University, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Amanda Tichacek
- Rwanda Zambia HIV Research Group, Emory University, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Tyronza Sharkey
- Zambia Emory HIV Research Project, Rwanda Zambia HIV Research Group, Emory University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - William Kilembe
- Zambia Emory HIV Research Project, Rwanda Zambia HIV Research Group, Emory University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Mubiana Inambao
- Zambia Emory HIV Research Project, Rwanda Zambia HIV Research Group, Emory University, Ndola, Zambia
| | - Matt A Price
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Bruno Spire
- Aix-Marseille Université, APHM, INSERM, IRD, Sciences Économiques & Sociales de la Santé et Traitement de l’Information Médicale (SESSTIM), Marseille, France
- Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (ORS PACA), Marseille, France
| | - Susan Allen
- Rwanda Zambia HIV Research Group, Emory University, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Beckham SW, Stockton M, Galai N, Davis W, Mwambo J, Likindikoki S, Kerrigan D. Family planning use and correlates among female sex workers in a community empowerment HIV prevention intervention in Iringa, Tanzania: a case for tailored programming. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1377. [PMID: 34247614 PMCID: PMC8274018 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11426-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sex workers in sub-Saharan Africa face high unmet need for family planning and higher risk for unintended pregnancy. Community empowerment HIV prevention approaches have the potential to increase family planning uptake and present an opportunity to integrate HIV, reproductive health, and contraception. This article describes family planning use and pregnancy among female sex workers in Iringa, Tanzania and evaluates whether engagement in a community empowerment HIV prevention program is associated with contraceptive use. METHODS This study consists of secondary analysis from a two-community randomized controlled trial following a longitudinal cohort over 18 months. We implemented a year-long community empowerment intervention consisting of 1) a community-led drop-in-center; 2) venue-based peer education, condom distribution, and HIV testing; 3) peer service navigation; 4) sensitivity trainings for providers and police; and 5) text messages to promote engagement. Additionally, monthly seminars were held at the drop-in-center, one of which focused on family planning. Modified Poisson regression models were used to estimate the association between program exposure and family planning use in the intervention arm. (Trials Registration NCT02281578, Nov 2, 2014.) RESULTS: Among the 339 participants with follow-up data on family planning, 60% reported current family planning use; 6% reported dual use of modern contraception and condoms; over 90% had living children; and 85% sought antenatal care at their most recent pregnancy. Among the 185 participants in the intervention arm, the adjusted relative risk (aRR) of family planning use among female sex workers who reported ever attending the Shikamana drop-in-center and among female sex workers who reported attending a family planning-related workshop was respectively 26% (aRR 1.26 [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.02-1.56]) and 36% (aRR 1.36 [95%CI: 1.13-1.64) higher than among those who had not attended. CONCLUSION There is a clear need for family planning among this population. General program exposure and exposure to a family planning workshop were associated with higher family planning use, which suggests that community empowerment models have potential to increase family planning uptake for this vulnerable group.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Wilson Beckham
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Johns Hopkins School of Public Health; Department of Health, Behavior and Society, 624 N Broadway HH 757, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Melissa Stockton
- grid.10698.360000000122483208Gillings School of Global Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 135 Dauer Dr., University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 USA
| | - Noya Galai
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Wendy Davis
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Jessie Mwambo
- grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Psychiatry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, PO Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Samuel Likindikoki
- grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Psychiatry, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, PO Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Johns Hopkins School of Public Health; Department of Health, Behavior and Society, 624 N Broadway HH 757, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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46
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Namey E, Lorenzetti L, O'Regan A, Tenaw E, Feleke E, Girima E. The financial lives of female sex workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Implications for economic strengthening interventions for HIV prevention. AIDS Care 2021; 34:379-387. [PMID: 34180728 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1944600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the financial context of the lives of female sex workers (FSWs) is essential to address structural drivers of HIV risk. We used a financial diary methodology to record daily financial transactions over six weeks from a stratified purposive sample (n = 34) of FSWs in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. FSWs also provided information on their experience with gender-based violence and condom use. FSWs generated 90.1% of total cash from sex work, with a median weekly income of USD 60.53. They engaged mostly in protected vaginal sex, earning approximately USD 4.57 per act. Food, housing, and clothing represented the largest areas of expenditure. Around 17% of expenses were recorded as costs of sex work (e.g., alcohol). Median weekly expenditures accounted for 62% of median weekly income. Nearly all participants reported depositing money into savings at least once over six weeks, while 71% reported a loan transaction during the six-week period, most as borrowers. Findings suggest that financial literacy and formalized savings activities, with life skills and empowerment training, have potential to build FSW's economic resilience, mitigating a structural driver of sex work and HIV risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Namey
- Behavioral, Epidemiological, and Clinical Sciences, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lara Lorenzetti
- Behavioral, Epidemiological, and Clinical Sciences, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Amy O'Regan
- Behavioral, Epidemiological, and Clinical Sciences, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eskindir Tenaw
- Independent Consultant, FHI 360 Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Engdasew Feleke
- Independent Consultant, FHI 360 Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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47
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Hendrickson ZM, Leddy AM, Galai N, Beckham SW, Davis W, Mbwambo JK, Likindikoki S, Kerrigan DL. Mobility for sex work and recent experiences of gender-based violence among female sex workers in Iringa, Tanzania: A longitudinal analysis. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252728. [PMID: 34081739 PMCID: PMC8174717 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Female sex workers are highly mobile, which may influence their risk of experiencing physical and sexual violence. However, there remains a paucity of research, particularly longitudinal, from Sub-Saharan Africa exploring mobility and gender-based violence among female sex workers. To address this gap, this study examined the longitudinal relationship between work-related mobility and recent experience of physical or sexual gender-based violence from a client or partner among female sex workers in Iringa, Tanzania. A secondary data analysis was conducted using baseline and 18-month follow-up data from Project Shikamana, a community empowerment-based combination HIV prevention intervention. Responses from 387 female sex workers aged 18 years and older participating in both baseline and follow-up were analyzed. Unadjusted and adjusted Poisson regression models with robust variance estimations, accounting for clustering of female sex workers' responses over time, were fit. Final models adjusted for socio-demographic characteristics and aspects of participants' living situations and work environments. Recent physical or sexual violence from a client or partner was common (baseline: 40%; follow-up: 29%). Twenty-six percent of female sex workers at baseline, and 11% at follow-up, had recently traveled outside of Iringa for sex work. In the final adjusted longitudinal model, female sex workers recently mobile for sex work had a 25% increased risk of any recent experience of physical or sexual gender-based violence when compared with their non-mobile counterparts (adjusted incidence rate ratio: 1.25; 95% CI: 1.03-1.53; p<0.05). Interventions must identify ways-such as mobile support services, linkages and referrals to health and other social services while traveling, or the use of mobile or digital technology-to address mobile female sex workers' unique needs while traveling. Future quantitative and qualitative research is needed to understand the context of female sex workers' mobility and how and why mobility influences risk environments and experiences of gender-based violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoé Mistrale Hendrickson
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Anna M. Leddy
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Noya Galai
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Statistics, University of Haifa, Mt Carmel, Haifa, Israel
| | - S. Wilson Beckham
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Wendy Davis
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Jessie K. Mbwambo
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Samuel Likindikoki
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Deanna L. Kerrigan
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
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48
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Singleton R, Sabben G, Winskell K. The spectrum of sexual transaction: representations in young Africans' HIV-themed creative narratives. Cult Health Sex 2021; 23:740-756. [PMID: 32267804 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2020.1727568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Sexual transaction, or any exchange of financial or material goods for sex, contributes to the disproportionate HIV burden among young women aged 15-24 years in sub-Saharan Africa. We analysed representations of sexual transactions in a sample of 363 narratives about HIV written by young Africans. The narratives were written at 4 time points (1997, 2005, 2008, 2014) by authors aged 10-24 years in urban and rural areas of Senegal, Burkina Faso, South-east Nigeria, Kenya and Eswatini, formerly Swaziland. We combined three analytical approaches: descriptive statistics of quantifiable characteristics of the narratives, thematic data analysis and a narrative-based approach. Representations reflect sexual transaction as a spectrum, with commercial sex work and sexual transactions that include romance at opposite ends. Narratives represent female characters increasingly motivated by a desire for social status symbols and by romantic love over time. Condemnation and stigmatisation of sexual transactions motivated by materialism remain similar across countries. In order to mitigate young women's disproportionate risk of HIV there is a need to combine efforts to address the economic marginalisation and gender inequality that drive sexual transactions with activities to promote skills and reflection and influence harmful norms, potentially drawing on companionate ideologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Singleton
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gaelle Sabben
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kate Winskell
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Owachi D, Anguzu G, Kigozi J, Cox J, Castelnuovo B, Semitala F, Meya D. Virologic suppression and associated factors in HIV infected Ugandan female sex workers: a cross-sectional study. Afr Health Sci 2021; 21:603-613. [PMID: 34795713 PMCID: PMC8568220 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v21i2.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Key populations have disproportionately higher HIV prevalence rates than the general population. OBJECTIVE To determine the level of virologic suppression and associated factors in female Commercial Sex Workers (CSW) who completed six months of ART and compare with the female general population (GP). METHODS Clinical records of CSW and GPs who initiated ART between December 2014 to December 2016 from seven urban clinics were analyzed to determine virologic suppression (viral load < 1000 copies/ml) and associated factors. RESULTS We identified 218 CSW and 182 female GPs. CSW had median age of 28 (IQR 25-31) vs 31 (IQR 26-37); median baseline CD4 446 (IQR 308-696) vs 352 (IQR 164-493) cells/microL; and optimal ART adherence levels at 70.6% vs 92.8% respectively, compared to GP. Virologic suppression in CSW and GPs was 85.7% and 89.6% respectively, P=0.28. Overall virologic suppression in CSW was 55% while Retention in care after 6 months of ART was 77.5%. Immediate ART initiation (<2weeks) and tuberculosis independently predicted virologic suppression in CSW with adjusted odds ratios 0.07 (95% C.I. 0.01-0.55, P=0.01) and 0.09 (95% C.I. 0.01-0.96, P=0.046) respectively. CONCLUSION Virologic suppression in both groups is similar, however, intensified follow-up is needed to improve treatment outcomes.
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50
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Nabunya P, Kiyingi J, Witte SS, Sensoy Bahar O, Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Tozan Y, Nabayinda J, Mwebembezi A, Tumwesige W, Mukasa B, Namirembe R, Kagaayi J, Nakigudde J, McKay MM, Ssewamala FM. Working with economically vulnerable women engaged in sex work: Collaborating with community stakeholders in Southern Uganda. Glob Public Health 2021; 17:1215-1231. [PMID: 33881949 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.1916054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03583541.
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Affiliation(s)
- Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.,International Center for Child Health and Development, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.,International Center for Child Health and Development, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Susan S Witte
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.,International Center for Child Health and Development, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Yesim Tozan
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Abel Mwebembezi
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Reach the Youth (RTY) Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Wilberforce Tumwesige
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.,International Center for Child Health and Development, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Rashida Namirembe
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Janet Nakigudde
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mary M McKay
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.,International Center for Child Health and Development, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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