1
|
Nabayinda J, Witte SS, Kizito S, Nanteza F, Nsubuga E, Sensoy Bahar O, Nabunya P, Ssewamala FM. The impact of an economic empowerment intervention on intimate partner violence among women engaged in sex work in southern Uganda: A cluster randomized control trial. Soc Sci Med 2024; 348:116846. [PMID: 38581814 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116846] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Women engaged in sex work (WESW) are at heightened risk of experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) compared to women in the general population. This study examines the impact of an economic empowerment intervention on IPV among WESW in Southern Uganda. We used data from 542 WESW in Southern Uganda recruited from 19 HIV hotspots between June 2019 and March 2020. Eligible participants were 18+ years old, engaged in sex work-defined as vaginal or anal sexual intercourse in exchange for money, alcohol, or other goods, reported at least one episode of unprotected sexual intercourse in the past 30 days with a paying, casual, or regular sexual partner (spouse, main partner). We analyzed data collected at baseline, 6, and 12months of follow up. To examine the impact of the intervention on IPV, separate mixed-effects logistic regression models were run for each type of IPV (physical, emotional, and sexual) as experienced by participants in the last 90 days. Results show that the intervention was efficacious in reducing emotional and physical IPV as evidenced by a statistically significant intervention main effect for emotional IPV, χ2(1) = 5.96, p = 0.015, and a significant intervention-by-time interaction effect for physical IPV, χ2(2) = 13.19, p < 0.001. To qualify the intervention impact on physical IPV, pairwise comparisons showed that participants who received the intervention had significantly lower levels of physical IPV compared to those in the control group at six months (contrasts = -0.12 (95% CI: -0.22, -0.02), p = 0.011). The intervention, time, and intervention-by-time main effects for sexual IPV were not statistically significant. Our findings suggest economic empowerment interventions as viable strategies for reducing emotional IPV among WESW. However, it is also essential to understand the role of interventions in addressing other forms of IPV especially for key populations at high risk of violence, HIV, and STI. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT03583541.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Nabayinda
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University, School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Samuel Kizito
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Flavia Nanteza
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka Office, Uganda
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
McAdam E, Hayashi K, Cui Z, Anderson H, Nelson S, Milloy MJ, DeBeck K. Receipt of COVID-19 emergency funds and engagement in sex work during COVID-19 among people who use drugs: evidence from Vancouver, Canada. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:86. [PMID: 38678228 PMCID: PMC11055326 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00997-w] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the early period of the COVID-19 pandemic, public health orders disrupted income generation in numerous sectors and many governments provided emergency financial support. Access to government support and changes in engagement in sex work during the early period of the pandemic among people who use drugs (PWUD) are not well described. In the present study, we investigate the prevalence and correlates of engaging in sex work during the COVID-19 pandemic, among PWUD in Vancouver, Canada. METHODS Data derived from three harmonized cohorts of PWUD. Using multivariable logistic regression, we characterized factors associated with engaging in sex work in the last month between July 17 and November 30, 2020. Reports of changes in frequency of engagement in sex work since the pandemic were also collected. RESULTS Of the 864 individuals included in this analysis, 55 (6.4%) reported sex work engagement in the last month. Among these participants, 40.7% reported receiving COVID-19 income support in the past month vs. 52.7% of the rest of the sample, though receipt of income support in the past six months was similar between the two groups (72.2% vs. 75.7%, p = 0.624). In multivariable analysis, receipt of financial support in the last month was negatively associated with engagement in sex work in the last month (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.44 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.24-0.81]). Among 69 participants who responded to a question regarding changes in engagement in sex work, 38 (55.1%) reported a decrease, 11 (15.9%) reported an increase, 19 (27.5%) reported no change, and 1 (1.4%) reported cessation. CONCLUSIONS Findings document that engagement in sex work appears to have declined early in the pandemic. Participants who received income support in the past month were less likely to report recent engagement in sex work. Findings suggest that recent receipt of income support may have contributed to reductions in engagement in sex work. Additional investigation is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica McAdam
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Howe St, 400-1045, V6Z 2A9, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Howe St, 400-1045, V6Z 2A9, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, V5A 1S6, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Zishan Cui
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Howe St, 400-1045, V6Z 2A9, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, 608-, V6Z 1Y6, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Haleigh Anderson
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Howe St, 400-1045, V6Z 2A9, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Peer Research Associates, At-Risk Youth Study, 1265 Granville St, V6Z 1M5, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Scarlett Nelson
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Howe St, 400-1045, V6Z 2A9, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Peer Research Associates, At-Risk Youth Study, 1265 Granville St, V6Z 1M5, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Howe St, 400-1045, V6Z 2A9, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, 608-, V6Z 1Y6, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Howe St, 400-1045, V6Z 2A9, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
- School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, 515 West Hastings St, V6B 5K3, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
- CIHR Applied Public Health Chair, Simon Fraser University, 515 West Hastings St, V6B 5K3, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kiyingi J, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Nabunya P, Kizito S, Nabayinda J, Nattabi J, Nsubuga E, Bahar OS, Namuwonge F, Nakabuye F, Nanteza F, Filippone PL, Mukasa D, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Examining the Intrapersonal, Interpersonal and Community Level Correlates of Access to Medical Care Among Women Employed by Sex Work in Southern Uganda: A cross-sectional Analysis of the Kyaterekera Study. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04333-y. [PMID: 38605251 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04333-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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Women employed by sex work (WESW) experience significant gaps in accessing necessary healthcare services, leading to unmet health needs. Yet, there is a dearth of literature on the barriers to medical care access among WESW in Uganda. We used data from the Kyaterekera baseline to examine the correlates of access to medical care among WESW, defined as the ability of individuals to obtain the necessary healthcare services they require in a timely, affordable, and equitable manner. The Kyaterekera study recruited 542 WESW aged 18-58 years from Southern Uganda. We conducted a multilevel linear regression model to determine the intrapersonal (age, education level, marital status, HIV knowledge, and asset ownership), interpersonal (family cohesion and domestic violence attitudes), and community (community satisfaction, sex work stigma and distance to health facility) level correlates of access to medical care among WESW. Intrapersonal and interpersonal factors were associated with access to medical care among WESW. There was no significant association between community level factors and access to medical care. WESW with secondary education (β = 0.928, 95% CI = 0.007, 1.849) were associated with increased access to medical care. WESW with high asset ownership (β = -1.154, 95% CI= -1.903, -0.405), high family cohesion (β = -0.069, 95% CI= -0.106, -0.031), and high domestic violence attitudes (β = -0.253, 95% CI= -0.438, -0.068) were associated with decreased access to medical care. The findings emphasize the critical need for targeted family strengthening interventions to enhance family support for WESW and address domestic violence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kiyingi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Department of Heath Behavior, Department of Maternal and Child Health, University of North Carolina, 316 Rosenau Hall, CB #7400, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Fatuma Nakabuye
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Flavia Nanteza
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Prema L Filippone
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, 1 Washington Square North, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - Dinah Mukasa
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University School of Social, Work1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Goldfarb, Room 346 Campus Box 1196, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Brennan RP, Fitzgerald L, Dean JA, Selvey L. 'Change creates change' - older female sex workers' experiences through the early COVID-19 pandemic. Cult Health Sex 2024; 26:466-482. [PMID: 37355340 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2023.2224869] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 and associated policy responses created unique social, economic and health risks for sex workers. Through semi-structured interviews we explored pre- and early COVID-19 experiences and work practices of ten cisgender female sex workers 50 years of age and older in Queensland, Australia, analysing the findings using a risk environment framework. Throughout early 2020, participants navigated a complex risk environment, managing economic needs, health and safety, occupational stigma and policing. Australia's policy responses altered the risks and opportunities available to participants. Half the participants continued sex work and half stopped sex work with some accessing economic support and withdrawing superannuation savings. Those who continued sex work drew on life and work experience to reassess changing health, stigma, and policing risks, and adapted their work strategies by increasing client screening and modifying services. Participants relied on information from peer networks and organisations to guide work practices but remained wary of contact tracing, police and the media. Decriminalisation of sex work and the strengthening of sex worker organisation and government partnerships are important in embedding equity in responses to ongoing and new public health threats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachael P Brennan
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Lisa Fitzgerald
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Judith A Dean
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Linda Selvey
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Avallone F, Hickson F. Sexual Health Needs Among Men Who Engage in Transactional Sex with Men in the UK. Arch Sex Behav 2024:10.1007/s10508-024-02838-0. [PMID: 38467959 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02838-0] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Men who engage in transactional sex with men (MTSM) are a high-risk population for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Epidemiological data have so far included them in the broad category of men who have sex with men (MSM), while research on transactional sex typically focused on female sex workers. The internet has substantially changed sex work practices and earlier findings concerning the sexual health needs of MTSM may no longer be applicable. We analyzed quantitative data from MSM based in the UK (n = 11629) taking part in the European MSM Internet Survey (EMIS-2017). Compared to non-MTSM, MTSM (n = 230; 2%) were younger, more likely to self-identify as an ethnic minority, be single, have lower education levels, struggle financially, and-controlling for age-more likely to be living with diagnosed HIV. Commonly unmet needs among all MSM were a lack of confidence in accessing HIV post-exposure prophylaxis, uncertainty about HIV status, and ignorance of where to access hepatitis vaccinations. Compared with other MSM, MTSM were notably less satisfied with the safety of their sexual practices, less confident in their ability to maintain sexual boundaries, and more likely to engage in risk because of absent precautionary resources. Given their greater opportunity for sexual risk, as well as fewer resources for negotiating safety, our findings suggest that services should prioritize MTSM in HIV prevention and sexual health promotion, including assertiveness and social skills training, in addition to knowledge-based education.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Avallone
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3S 1Z1, Canada.
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Ford Hickson
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jiménez-Morón A, Hueso-Montoro C, Caparros-González R, Pérez-Morente MÁ. [Risk factors for the acquisition of Sexually Transmitted Infections in sex workers: a systematic review]. Rev Esp Salud Publica 2024; 98:e2024023019. [PMID: 38477553] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), as their name suggests, are infections caused by more than thirty different bacteria, viruses, and parasites and are transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse, although some sexually transmitted infections can also transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth and lactation. According to World Health Organization, one of the main populations at risk for acquiring these diseases are sex workers and their clients. Due to the high prevalence, the characteristics and behaviors that favor the development of these diseases are analyzed. The main objective of this paper was to analyze the risk factors in the acquisition of sexually transmitted diseases in the population of sex workers. METHODS A literature search was conducted in Scopus, Pubmed, CINAHL, Medline, LILACS and IBECS, of observational, longitudinal and mixed methods studies conducted in sex workers and published between January 2011 and March 2021, with a final sample of fourty-three articles. The mixed methods assessment tool (MMAT) was used to assess the methodological quality of the papers. RESULTS After analyzing the literature, eleven groups of risk factors related to the acquisition of sexually transmitted diseases were obtained, these being economic factors, factors related to sexual practices, drug use, sex work, education, health problems, country of origin and mobility, partner, age, violence and other factors not belonging to the previous categories. CONCLUSIONS Sex workers have numerous characteristics and behaviors that make them vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections. Of note are years of prostitution, drug use, number of partners and condom use, which are key factors for future prevention and intervention strategies, as well as research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aarón Jiménez-Morón
- Unidad de hospitalización de Medicina Interna; Hospital Universitario Infanta Sofía. Sebastián de los Reyes. España
| | - César Hueso-Montoro
- Departamento de Enfermería; Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud; Universidad de Jaén. Jaén. España
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.Granada. Granada. España
- Centro de Investigación Mente, Cerebro y Comportamiento (CIMCYC); Universidad de Granada. Granada. España
| | - Rafael Caparros-González
- Departamento de Enfermería; Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud; Universidad de Granada. Granada. España
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.Granada. Granada. España
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Puffer H, Hodson G, Prusaczyk E. Attitudes Toward Cisgender Women's Participation in Sex Work: Opportunity for Agency or Harmful Exchange? Arch Sex Behav 2024; 53:1169-1185. [PMID: 38285296 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02797-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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Despite the stigmatization of sex work in society, little empirical research has examined attitudes toward sex work, especially its modern incarnations (e.g., sugar relationships, webcamming). Here, a sample of 298 US residents (Mage = 40.06 years; 59.1% male, 40.9% female) was recruited through Amazon Mechanical Turk. Various theoretical predictors (e.g., right-wing authoritarianism [RWA]), sociosexuality) were set to predict the degree to which four sex work domains (prostitution, pornography, sugar relationships, webcamming) provide cisgender women agency (beneficial) or harm them (detrimental). We found that the domains of sex work were organized hierarchically, as theorized by the so-called "whorearchy," whereby the more "unfavorable" domains (e.g., prostitution) fall at the bottom, and the more "favorable" ones (e.g., webcamming) sit at the top. Additionally, multiple regression analyses revealed that RWA (negatively) and sociosexuality (positively) were the strongest predictors of sex work agency across various domains. In predicting harm, RWA, feminism, religiosity, and age were unique positive predictors, whereas sociosexuality and male (vs. female) self-identified sex were unique negative predictors, across the four domains of sex work. Moreover, individual differences (e.g., RWA) were often significantly stronger predictors of agency or harm among female than male participants. The results suggest that although sex work domains vary in agency and harm ratings, individual differences (most notably, RWA and sociosexuality) are important predictors across domains, especially for cisgender women. Given the growing prevalence of such online forms of sex work, along with growing evidence of sugar relationships, it will become increasingly important to track reactions as these forms of sex work evolve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Puffer
- Department of Psychology, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada.
| | - Gordon Hodson
- Department of Psychology, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Elvira Prusaczyk
- Department of Psychology, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rosati F, Pistella J, Coletta V, Baiocco R. Racialized Migrant Transgender Women Engaged in Sex Work: Double Binds and Identifications with the Community. Arch Sex Behav 2024; 53:1153-1168. [PMID: 38347323 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02804-2] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Racialized migrant transgender women engaged in sex work represent an understudied population. They face unique challenges resulting from their multiple marginalized identities, such as racialized transmisogyny. Since marginalized communities play a vital role in mitigating systemic stigma, it is essential to expand the literature on the community of this population. The present study used the frameworks of gender minority stress and intersectionality, along with a decolonial and transfeminist approach. Twenty participants aged between 28 and 66 years old (M = 43.15; SD = 10.49) took part in a semi-structured interview. Thematic analysis identified two main areas with ten corresponding themes. "The double bind of community" described the complex dynamics experienced by transgender refugees within their community, including (1) sex work between emancipation and exploitation, (2) non-prescribed treatments for gender affirmation, (3) negative experiences with the community, (4) positive impact of trans organizations, and (5) practical and economic support and exploitation. "The identification with the community" highlighted how participants positively or negatively identified with the community, containing: (6) awareness of one's privileges and oppressions, (7) internalized cisgenderism and assimilation, (8) gender euphoria; (9) sexual objectification, and (10) trans-generativity. The study evidenced the complex dynamics within marginalized communities. Trauma, stigma, and survival struggles can lead to violence and exploitation within the community. However, the community also has the potential to promote positive feelings and generativity. These findings have practical implications for social workers, healthcare practitioners, and researchers, emphasizing the need for appropriate and culturally competent care, including resources for coping with stress, fostering resilience, and facilitating post-traumatic growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fau Rosati
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Valle d'Aosta, Str. Cappuccini, 2, 11100, Aosta, Italy.
| | - Jessica Pistella
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Coletta
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Baiocco
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Atuk T. "If I knew you were a travesti, I wouldn't have touched you":Iatrogenic violence and trans necropolitics in Turkey. Soc Sci Med 2024; 345:116693. [PMID: 38367339 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116693] [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] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Since 2007, the number of HIV diagnoses in Turkey has increased more than 600% and the AIDS-related deaths have more than doubled. Despite trans community being severely impacted by the growing epidemic, there exists a conspicuous absence of epidemiological data regarding the HIV burden of trans people. This paper examines the medical experiences of HIV-positive trans women who engage in sex work and the harmful violence they encounter at the hands of health providers. The paper emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive interventions to address the intersecting issues of HIV risk, structural violence, and discrimination faced by HIV-positive trans sex workers, one of the most marginalized communities worldwide. To interpret better how transphobia and HIVphobia become deeply entangled in Turkish medical settings, the paper draws from the concepts of iatrogenesis, necropolitics, and immunity. By bringing together these conceptual tools with long-term ethnographic data and in-depth interviews, this paper demonstrates that trans women are treated by healthcare providers as though they are always-already infectious. The paper contends that aggressive immunitarian boundaries, erected between healthcare personnel and individuals deemed "contagious others," are central to doctors' denial of medical care and reluctance to touch, examine, or even admit trans patients, particularly when they are HIV-positive.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tankut Atuk
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Science and Technology Studies Department, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jones J, Testa A, Jackson DB, Nagata JM, Ganson KT. Sex Work and Educational Mobility: Results from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health. Arch Sex Behav 2024; 53:9-15. [PMID: 37845418 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02709-0] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to assess the relationship between sex work involvement and education mobility among a national sample of US young adults. Data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health; N = 7732) were analyzed to explore the prospective association between lifetime sex work involvement measured in young adulthood (Wave III; ages 18-26) and educational mobility measured in adulthood (Wave V; ages 33-43). Multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted, adjusting for relevant demographic and control variables. Results indicated that young adults who reported ever having been paid for sex by the ages of 18-26 had twofold greater risk (95% confidence interval 1.26-3.18) of having downward educational mobility compared to a stable level of education, or the same education, relative to their parents in adulthood. Given that education, by means of regular social connectedness to social supports, may be the most salient resiliency factor protecting adolescents from potential risks associated with sex work involvement (e.g., stigma, isolation from services), the findings from this study support the promotion of inclusive engagement from school settings to foster educational attainment and prevent poorer health and psychosocial outcomes that research to date has associated with sex work involvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jori Jones
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street W, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada.
| | - Alexander Testa
- Department of Management, Policy and Community Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Dylan B Jackson
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jason M Nagata
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kyle T Ganson
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street W, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kerrigan D, Barrington C, Donastorg Y, Perez M, Gomez H, Davis W, Beckham SW, Karver TS, Mantsios A, Galai N. Individual and Collective Forms of Stigma Resistance: Pathways Between HIV and Sex Work Stigma and Viral Suppression Among Female Sex Workers in the Dominican Republic. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:357-366. [PMID: 37725235 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04169-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] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Intersecting forms of stigma including both HIV and sex work stigma have been known to impede HIV prevention and optimal treatment outcomes among FSW. Recent research has indicated that intersectional stigma can be resisted at the community and individual level. We assessed pathways between HIV stigma, sex work stigma, social cohesion and viral suppression among a cohort of 210 FSW living with HIV in the Dominican Republic. Through Poisson regression we explored the relationship between HIV outcomes and internalized, anticipated and enacted HIV and sex work stigma, and resisted sex work stigma. We employed structural equation modeling to explore the direct effect of various forms of stigma on HIV outcomes, and the mediating effects of multi-level stigma resistance including social cohesion at the community level and occupational dignity at the individual level. 76.2% of FSW were virally suppressed and 28.1% had stopped ART at least once in the last 6 months. ART interruption had a significant negative direct effect on viral suppression (OR = 0.26, p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.13-0.51). Social cohesion had a significant positive direct effect on viral suppression (OR = 2.07, p = 0.046, 95% CI: 1.01-4.25). Anticipated HIV stigma had a significant negative effect on viral suppression (OR = 0.34, p = 0.055, 95% CI: 0.11-1.02). This effect was mediated by the interaction between cohesion and dignity which rendered the impact of HIV stigma on viral suppression not significant. Findings demonstrate that while HIV stigma has a negative impact on viral suppression among FSW, it can be resisted through individual and collective means. Results reinforce the importance of community-driven, multi-level interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deanna Kerrigan
- George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Clare Barrington
- University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Yeycy Donastorg
- Instituto Dermatológico y Cirugía de Piel Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Martha Perez
- Instituto Dermatológico y Cirugía de Piel Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Hoisex Gomez
- Instituto Dermatológico y Cirugía de Piel Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Wendy Davis
- George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - S Wilson Beckham
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Noya Galai
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Boering P, Seeley J, Buule J, Kamacooko O, King R. A Comparison of Self-reported Condomless Sex and Yc-DNA Biomarker Data from Young Women Engaged in High Risk Sexual Activity in Kampala, Uganda. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:320-331. [PMID: 37751111 PMCID: PMC10803388 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04177-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] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Reporting of condom-use can limit researchers' understanding of high-risk sexual behaviours. We compared self-reported condom-use with the Yc-DNA biomarker data and investigated potential factors influencing participation in, and reporting of, sexual behaviours. Self-reported data were collected using Audio Computer Assisted Self Interviews (ACASI) and samples for Yc-DNA biomarker were collected using self-administered and health worker-collected vaginal swabs from 644 women (aged 15-24 years) who were not living with HIV. Yc-DNA results and interview data were compared using McNemar-Bowker Analysis and Cohen's Kappa. Test statistics for Yc-DNA biomarker were calculated. Log Binomial models for Yc-DNA and self-reported results were conducted to assess for association. We found strong evidence (p < 0.001) for a difference between Yc-DNA and self-reported results. 13.7% of participants reported consistent condom-use with all partners, regardless of HIV status. Self-reported condom-use was discordant in 50.0% (n = 206) of cases, when compared to Yc-DNA results. Positive Yc-DNA results were found to be associated with older age (RR 1.36; 95%CI 1.04, 1.76 p = 0.023). Self-reported condom-use with partners with unknown HIV status was associated with higher education (RR 0.76; 95%CI 0.58,0.99 p = 0.043). Sensitivity analysis did not determine difference between methods for controlling for missing data. We found significant under-reporting of condomless sex in the self-reported data when compared to Yc-DNA results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pippa Boering
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
- MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Joshua Buule
- Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Rachel King
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- INSERM, 60 Rue de Navacelles, 34090, Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yiu WSN, Levitt L, Ye K, Fuentes K, Madness A. Challenging dominant narratives, interrupting objectification, and queer creativity: Queer sex worker art in Los Angeles. J Lesbian Stud 2023:1-20. [PMID: 38132823 DOI: 10.1080/10894160.2023.2294557] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Drawing on queer of color critique, this paper uses mixed methods including participant observation, interviews, visual and textual analysis, and photovoice to interrogate sex workers' queer creative practices. Building upon the larger oeuvre of sex working artists, contemporary sex working artists in Los Angeles utilizes queer creativity to thwart hegemonic readings of sex work. Performances at two activist fundraisers drew on the themes and esthetics of sex work to counter mainstream narratives about sex work and workers, and to interrupt their objectification. The cover and graphics of a sex worker zine push back against dominant narratives about sex workers and the power structures that suppress sex worker self-representation. Photovoice methodology allowed sex workers to counteract objectification by telling their own stories. In their creative products, sex workers show how "queer" is a praxis of sex and gender disruption, rather than a simple identity category signaling non-heterosexuality, challenging homonormativity in addition to heteronormativity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Si Nic Yiu
- Department of Gender Studies, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lauren Levitt
- Department of Media and Cultural Studies, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Kim Ye
- Department of Photo & Media, California Institute of the Arts, Valencia, CA, USA
| | - Kimberly Fuentes
- Department of Social Welfare, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ashley Madness
- Sex Worker Outreach Project Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mesías-Gazmuri J, Folch C, Ferrer L, Reyes-Urueña J, Egea-Cortés L, Morales A, Villegas L, Casabona J. Syndemic Conditions and Their Association with HIV/STI Sexual Risk Behaviors Among Transgender Women and Cisgender Men Sex Workers in Catalonia: The SexCohort Project. Int J Behav Med 2023; 30:824-835. [PMID: 36333554 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-022-10138-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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender women and cisgender men sex workers are vulnerable to HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study aimed to explore in depth the prevalence of syndemic conditions and their association with the sexual risk behaviors for HIV/STI acquisition in cis men and trans women sex workers in Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain). METHOD We conducted a study between 2014 and 2018 to determine whether syndemic conditions (frequent alcohol consumption and polydrug use (> 2) during sex with clients; experience of violence; and lack of healthcare access) are associated with HIV/STI sexual risk behaviors. A "syndemic index" was calculated based on the cumulative number of syndemic conditions (0 to 4). RESULTS In the last year (2018), 78.8% of cisgender men and 68.1% of transgender women reported at least one syndemic condition. The most prevalent syndemic factor in both cisgender men and transgender women was violence (38.8% and 43.6% respectively). In multivariable analysis, an association was found between condomless anal sex and violence (aOR = 1.81), and frequent alcohol consumption and violence with reporting > 10 clients/week (aOR = 2.73 and 1.88, respectively). The higher the number of syndemic factors, the greater probability of having > 10 clients/week and reporting condomless anal sex with clients. CONCLUSION Psychosocial conditions have a syndemic effect on risky sexual behaviors highlighting the need for a more holistic approach to HIV/STI prevention targeting these populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn Mesías-Gazmuri
- Centre Estudis Epidemiològics Sobre Les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual I Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Agència de Salut Pública de Catalunya, Badalona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias I Pujol, Carretera de Can Ruti, Edifici MuntanyaCamí de Les Escoles S/N, 08916, Badalona (Barcelona), Spain
- Doctorat Metodologia de La Recerca Biomèdica I Salut Publica, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Cinta Folch
- Centre Estudis Epidemiològics Sobre Les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual I Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Agència de Salut Pública de Catalunya, Badalona, Spain.
- Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias I Pujol, Carretera de Can Ruti, Edifici MuntanyaCamí de Les Escoles S/N, 08916, Badalona (Barcelona), Spain.
| | - Laia Ferrer
- Centre Estudis Epidemiològics Sobre Les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual I Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Agència de Salut Pública de Catalunya, Badalona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología Y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juliana Reyes-Urueña
- Centre Estudis Epidemiològics Sobre Les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual I Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Agència de Salut Pública de Catalunya, Badalona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias I Pujol, Carretera de Can Ruti, Edifici MuntanyaCamí de Les Escoles S/N, 08916, Badalona (Barcelona), Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología Y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laia Egea-Cortés
- Centre Estudis Epidemiològics Sobre Les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual I Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Agència de Salut Pública de Catalunya, Badalona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias I Pujol, Carretera de Can Ruti, Edifici MuntanyaCamí de Les Escoles S/N, 08916, Badalona (Barcelona), Spain
| | | | | | - Jordi Casabona
- Centre Estudis Epidemiològics Sobre Les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual I Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Agència de Salut Pública de Catalunya, Badalona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias I Pujol, Carretera de Can Ruti, Edifici MuntanyaCamí de Les Escoles S/N, 08916, Badalona (Barcelona), Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología Y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Preventive Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rains A, Sibley AL, Levander XA, Walters SM, Nolte K, Colston DC, Piscalko HM, Go VF, Friedmann PD, Seal DW. "I would do anything but that": Attitudes towards sex work among rural people who use drugs. Int J Drug Policy 2023; 122:104237. [PMID: 37865053 PMCID: PMC10842447 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104237] [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: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stigma towards people who use drugs and those who engage in sex work is well-documented, leading to consequences such as reduced access to health services and support, especially in rural milieus. Stigma reduction has been recognized as a priority in the opioid overdose crisis, but little attention has been paid to within-group attitudes and beliefs. This study aimed to explore how people who use drugs in rural counties across the United States appraise sex work by themselves or other community members. METHODS Qualitative interview data came from the Rural Opioid Initiative (ROI), a project coordinated by research teams across 65 rural counties in 10 states. Interviews were individual and conducted from 2018 to 2020. All participants reported past 30-day opioid use and/or any injection drug use. A working group coded the data, then used an iterative inductive-deductive approach to organize data into themes of stigma among people who use drugs, focusing on stigma towards sex work. RESULTS Across sites, 355 interviews were conducted. Mean participant age was 36, 55 % of participants were male, and 93 % were white. Participants expressed negative attitudes towards sex work as a function of its criminal-legal repercussions or framed sex work as morally transgressive. Many appraisals were gendered, with the behavior conveyed as being "easier" for women who were often described as "whores," with more neutral terms used to describe men. Some viewed sex work as an implicit "exchange" for drugs. Several participants noted a lack of agency as a feature leading to involvement in sex work, with partner power dynamics influencing an individual's behavior. Finally, a few participants acknowledged the circumstances under which they would newly engage in sex work. CONCLUSION We identified several patterns by which people who use drugs evaluate community members who sell sex. These included gendered and morally-charged forms of stigma, which may represent barriers to community acceptance and support among this subgroup.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alex Rains
- University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Adams L Sibley
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, 170 Rosenau Hall CB #7400, 135 Dauer Dr., Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ximena A Levander
- Division of General Internal Medicine & Geriatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Suzan M Walters
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population Health, NYU Langone Health, 180 Madison, New York, NY 10018, USA
| | - Kerry Nolte
- Department of Nursing, College of Health and Human Services, University of New Hampshire, Hewitt Hall, 4 Library Way, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - David C Colston
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, 170 Rosenau Hall CB #7400, 135 Dauer Dr., Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Hannah M Piscalko
- Division of Epidemiology, The Ohio State University College of Public Health, Cunz Hall 1841 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Vivian F Go
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, 170 Rosenau Hall CB #7400, 135 Dauer Dr., Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Peter D Friedmann
- Baystate Health and UMass Chan Medical School-Baystate, Office of Research, 3601 Main Street, 3rd Floor, Springfield, MA 01199, USA
| | - David W Seal
- Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, 1440 Canal Street, Suite 2200, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Emanuel E, Slater L, Croxford S, Edmundson C, Ibitoye A, Njoroge J, Ijaz S, Hope V, Platt L, Phipps E, Desai M. Adverse health outcomes among people who inject drugs who engaged in recent sex work: findings from a national survey. Public Health 2023; 225:79-86. [PMID: 37922590 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.09.024] [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] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study explores trends in sex work among people who inject drugs (PWID) by gender and the relationship between sex work and adverse health outcomes including overdose, injection-site, and blood-borne virus (BBV) infections. STUDY DESIGN The Unlinked Anonymous Monitoring Survey of PWID is an annual cross-sectional survey that monitors BBV prevalence and behaviours, including transactional sex, among PWID recruited through specialist services in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. METHODS Trends in sex work among PWID (2011-2021) were described. Data were analysed to assess differences between PWID who engaged in sex work in the past year (sex workers [SWs]) and those who did not (non-SWs) by gender (Pearson Chi2 tests) (2018-2021). Associations between sex work in the past year and adverse health outcomes were investigated using logistic regression. RESULTS Between 2011 and 2021, sex work among PWID remained stable, with 31% of women and 6.3% of men who inject, reporting having ever engaged in sex work, and 14% of women and 2.2% of men engaging in sex work in the past year. Between 2018 and 2021, SWs had greater odds of reporting symptoms of an injection-site infection (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.68 [95% confidence interval {CI}: 1.31-2.16], P < 0.001) and reporting overdose (aOR: 2.21 [CI: 1.74-2.80], P < 0.001) than non-SWs had in the past year. Among men, SWs had 243% greater odds of having HIV than non-SWs (aOR: 3.43 [CI: 1.03-11.33], P = 0.043). CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight disproportionate vulnerability and intersection of overlapping risk factors experienced by PWID SWs and a need for tailored interventions which are inclusive and low-threshold.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Emanuel
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Service, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
| | - L Slater
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Service, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom.
| | - S Croxford
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Service, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom; St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Prescot, United Kingdom
| | - C Edmundson
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Service, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
| | - A Ibitoye
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Service, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
| | - J Njoroge
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Service, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
| | - S Ijaz
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Service, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
| | - V Hope
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Service, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom; Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - L Platt
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - E Phipps
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Service, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
| | - M Desai
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Service, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Moreheart S, Shannon K, Krüsi A, McDermid J, Ettinger E, Braschel M, Goldenberg SM. Negative changes in illicit drug supply during COVID-19: Associations with use of overdose prevention and health services among women sex workers who use drugs (2020-2021). Int J Drug Policy 2023; 121:104212. [PMID: 37797570 PMCID: PMC10798550 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104212] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women sex workers are a highly criminalized population who are over-represented amongst people who use drugs (PWUD) and face gaps in overdose prevention and harm reduction services. British Columbia, Canada continues to face a pronounced drug poisoning crisis of the illicit drug supply, which has intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our objective was to examine the prevalence and structural correlates of experiencing negative changes in illicit drug supply (e.g., availability, quality, cost, or access to drugs) amongst women sex workers who use drugs during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Cross-sectional questionnaire data were drawn from a prospective, community-based cohort of women sex workers in Vancouver (AESHA) from April 2020 to 2021. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate structural correlates of negative changes in drug supply during COVID-19 among sex workers who use drugs. RESULTS Among 179 sex workers who use drugs, 68.2% reported experiencing negative changes to drug supply during COVID-19, 54.2% recently accessed overdose prevention sites, and 44.7% reported experiencing recent healthcare barriers. In multivariable analysis adjusted for injection drug use, women who reported negative changes in illicit drug supply had higher odds of experiencing recent healthcare barriers (AOR 2.28, 95%CI 1.12-4.62); those recently accessing overdose prevention sites (AOR 1.75, 95%CI 0.86-3.54) faced marginally higher odds also. CONCLUSIONS Over two-thirds of participants experienced negative changes to illicit drug supply during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. The association between experiencing negative changes in the illicit drug supply and accessing overdose prevention services highlights the agency of women in taking measures to address overdose-related risks. Highly criminalized women who experience structural barriers to direct services are also vulnerable to fluctuations in the illicit drug supply. Attenuating health consequences requires interventions tailored to sex workers' needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Moreheart
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, UBC Faculty of Medicine, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Kate Shannon
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, UBC Faculty of Medicine, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Andrea Krüsi
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, UBC Faculty of Medicine, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Jennifer McDermid
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, UBC Faculty of Medicine, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Emma Ettinger
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, UBC Faculty of Medicine, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Melissa Braschel
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, UBC Faculty of Medicine, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Shira Miriam Goldenberg
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, UBC Faculty of Medicine, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182-4162, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lazarus L, Herpai N, Pavlova D, Gill A, Cholette F, McClarty LM, Isac S, Lopatenko A, Pickles M, Mishra S, Shaw SY, Lorway R, McKinnon LR, Sandstrom P, Blanchard J, Balakireva O, Becker ML. A cross-sectional survey exploring HIV and HCV prevalence among men who purchase sex in Dnipro, Ukraine. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2054. [PMID: 37858070 PMCID: PMC10588219 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16903-1] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV programming in Ukraine largely targets "key population" groups. Men who purchase sex are not directly reached. The aim of our study was to explore the prevalence of sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs) among men who purchase sex from female sex workers. METHODS Following geographic mapping and population size estimation at each "hotspot", we conducted a cross-sectional bio-behavioural survey with men who purchase sex between September 2017 and March 2018 in Dnipro, Ukraine. Eligibility criteria included purchasing sex services at a "hotspot" and being ≥ 18 years. Participants completed a structured questionnaire, followed by HIV/HCV rapid testing and a dried blood spot (DBS) sample collection for confirmatory serology. RESULTS The study enrolled 370 participants. The median age was 32 (interquartile range [IQR] = 27-38) and the median age of first purchase of sexual services was 22 (IQR = 19-27). Over half (56%) of participants reported ever testing for HIV; four participants (2%, N = 206) reported having tested positive for HIV, with three out of the four reporting being on ART. Forty percent of participants had ever tested for HCV, with three (2%, N = 142) having ever tested positive for HCV. In DBS testing, nine participants (2.4%) tested positive for HIV and 24 (6.5%) tested positive for ever having an HCV infection. CONCLUSION Prevalence of HIV and HCV in this population was high. Given high rates of study enrolment and testing, efforts should be made to reach men who purchase sex with expanded STBBI programming.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Lazarus
- Institute for Global Public Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, R070 Med Rehab Building, 771 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2E 0T6, Canada.
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Nicole Herpai
- Institute for Global Public Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, R070 Med Rehab Building, 771 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2E 0T6, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Daria Pavlova
- Ukrainian Institute for Social Research after Oleksandr Yaremenko, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Amaanat Gill
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - François Cholette
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections, National Microbiology Laboratory at JC Wilt Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Leigh M McClarty
- Institute for Global Public Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, R070 Med Rehab Building, 771 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2E 0T6, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Shajy Isac
- Institute for Global Public Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, R070 Med Rehab Building, 771 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2E 0T6, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- India Health Action Trust, Delhi, India
| | - Anna Lopatenko
- Dnipropetrovsk Regional Center for Socially Significant Diseases, Dnipro, Ukraine
| | - Michael Pickles
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sharmistha Mishra
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Souradet Y Shaw
- Institute for Global Public Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, R070 Med Rehab Building, 771 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2E 0T6, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Robert Lorway
- Institute for Global Public Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, R070 Med Rehab Building, 771 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2E 0T6, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Lyle R McKinnon
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Paul Sandstrom
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections, National Microbiology Laboratory at JC Wilt Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - James Blanchard
- Institute for Global Public Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, R070 Med Rehab Building, 771 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2E 0T6, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Olga Balakireva
- Ukrainian Institute for Social Research after Oleksandr Yaremenko, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Institute for Economics and Forecasting, Ukrainian National Academy of Sciences, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Marissa L Becker
- Institute for Global Public Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, R070 Med Rehab Building, 771 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2E 0T6, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Cooney EE, Footer KHA, Glick JL, Passaniti A, Howes M, Sherman SG. Understanding the social and structural context of oral PrEP delivery: an ethnography exploring barriers and facilitators impacting transgender women who engage in street-based sex work in Baltimore, Maryland. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:69. [PMID: 37730616 PMCID: PMC10510123 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00556-6] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Transgender women who sell sex (TWSS) experience high rates of HIV acquisition. Antiretrovirals for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) represent an efficacious HIV prevention strategy. The social and structural factors affecting PrEP delivery amongst TWSS are underexplored in the literature. We conducted ethnographic research to examine how multilevel social and structural factors manifest in TWSS's lived experiences and affect PrEP delivery and use. Twenty-four transgender women were recruited from the SAPPHIRE cohort and completed interviews focused on barriers and facilitators to PrEP engagement in the context of street-based sex work. Stakeholder interviews (N = 7) were also conducted. Our findings suggest there are unique features of the risk environment that can collectively impede PrEP use among TWSS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin E Cooney
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Katherine H A Footer
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA.
| | - Jennifer L Glick
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Anna Passaniti
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Meridian Howes
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Elmi N, Marquez NG, Rucinski K, Lyons C, Turpin G, Ba I, Turpin N, Gouane E, Obodou E, Diouf D, Baral S. Meeting the reproductive health needs of female sex workers in Côte d'Ivoire: protecting the human right to dignified health. Reprod Health 2023; 20:133. [PMID: 37670305 PMCID: PMC10481554 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-023-01659-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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The sexual and reproductive health needs of female sex workers (FSW) are often understudied and underserved in the context of HIV-related research in countries across Sub-Saharan Africa and West Africa. We assessed the lived experiences of FSW across Côte d'Ivoire to characterize unmet reproductive health needs and opportunities to address them. From February-August, 2020, ENDA Santé, Côte d'Ivoire conducted 75 in-depth interviews and 15 focus group discussions with FSW and community informants in five cities in Côte d'Ivoire. Themes that emerged included the inconsistent use of contraception services, a history of unintended pregnancies, and experiences of stigma at public healthcare facilities. Opportunities to increase the impact of both SRH and HIV services included strengthening existing HIV and family planning service integration for FSW. Taken together, the results highlight the importance of addressing the unmet reproductive health needs of FSW to both optimize the HIV response and increase the delivery of human-rights affirming sexual and reproductive health services for sex workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nika Elmi
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Nuria Gallego Marquez
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Katherine Rucinski
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Carrie Lyons
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Gnilane Turpin
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | | | | | - Emile Gouane
- ENDA Santé Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | | | | | - Stefan Baral
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Nyariki E, Wanjiru R, Shah P, Kungu M, Babu H, Weiss HA, Seeley J, Kimani J, Beattie TS. Managing motherhood - the experiences of female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya. Cult Health Sex 2023; 25:1230-1243. [PMID: 36519798 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2022.2153926] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Women selling sex often face challenges in raising their children in the context of significant socio-economic difficulties and the social stigma inherent in sex work. This paper is based on a cross-sectional qualitative study that explored the dual roles of motherhood and sex work among female sex workers enrolled for ongoing HIV prevention and treatment services in the Sex Workers Outreach Programme (SWOP) clinics in Nairobi, Kenya. We examined women's experiences and coping in negotiating and managing the dual roles of motherhood and sex work. In-depth interviews were conducted with 39 women randomly selected from 1,000 women included in a baseline behavioural-biological survey conducted in October-November 2020 as part of the Maisha Fiti study. The analysis focused on themes related to motherhood and making a living: (i) entry into sex work; (ii) childcare arrangements; (iii) ensuring respectability for their children; and (iv) pursuit of safety and security. Findings from the study show women's entry into sex work was necessitated by poverty and a lack of reliable sources of livelihood to support their children. While performing their motherhood roles, the women demonstrate agency in navigating through their stigmatised conflicted sex work role to be able to provide for their children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Nyariki
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rhoda Wanjiru
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Pooja Shah
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mary Kungu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hellen Babu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helen A Weiss
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Tara S Beattie
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Weir BW, Wirtz AL, Chemnasiri T, Baral SD, Decker M, Dun C, Hnin Mon SH, Ungsedhapand C, Dunne EF, Woodring J, Pattanasin S, Sukwicha W, Thigpen MC, Varangrat A, Warapornmongkholkul A, O'Connor S, Ngo JP, Qaragholi N, Sisel HI, Truong JM, Janyam S, Linjongrat D, Sriplienchan S, Sirivongrangson P, Rooney JF, Sullivan P, Chua-Intra B, Hickey AC, Beyrer C. High PrEP uptake, adherence, persistence and effectiveness outcomes among young Thai men and transgender women who sell sex in Bangkok and Pattaya, Thailand: findings from the open-label combination HIV prevention effectiveness (COPE) study. Lancet Reg Health Southeast Asia 2023; 15:100217. [PMID: 37614346 PMCID: PMC10442968 DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2023.100217] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Background Daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective in preventing HIV infection, but no study has evaluated combination prevention interventions with PrEP for transgender women (TGW) and men who have sex with men (MSM) who sell sex. Methods The Combination Prevention Effectiveness (COPE) study was a community-based, non-randomized implementation study in Bangkok and Pattaya, Thailand. Participants were HIV-negative MSM and TGW aged 18-26 years who reported exchanging sex with men in the prior 12 months and who met 2014 U.S. Public Health Service PrEP eligibility criteria. The intervention included quarterly HIV testing, semiannual testing for sexually transmitted infections, provision of condoms with lubricant, and the opportunity to initiate or end daily oral PrEP use at any time during study participation. Participants taking PrEP received monthly adherence counseling and short message service reminders. The primary outcome was HIV incidence rate ratio (IRR) on PrEP vs. not on PrEP. Secondary outcomes were PrEP initiation, PrEP use at 12 months, and PrEP adherence. Findings From October 2017 to August 2019, 846 participants were enrolled: 531 (62.8%) immediately initiated PrEP; 104 (12.3%) subsequently initiated PrEP, and 211 (24.9%) never initiated PrEP. Among those initiating PrEP within 30 days of enrollment; 85.9% were on PrEP at the 12-months. When taking PrEP, participants reported adherent PrEP use at 94.2% of quarterly assessments. Ten HIV seroconversions occurred without PrEP use (incidence rate [IR] = 3.42 per 100 person-years [PY]; 95% CI = 1.64-6.30), while zero cases occurred with PrEP use (IR = 0.0 per 100PY; 95% CI = 0.0-0.62), with IRR = 0.0 (95% CI = 0.0-0.22; p < 0.001). Interpretation Young Thai MSM and TGW who exchange sex can have high PrEP uptake, persistence and adherence, and low HIV incidence when offered in supportive community-based settings. Funding U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian W. Weir
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrea L. Wirtz
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Tareerat Chemnasiri
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Stefan D. Baral
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michele Decker
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chen Dun
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sandra Hsu Hnin Mon
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chaiwat Ungsedhapand
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Eileen F. Dunne
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Joseph Woodring
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Sarika Pattanasin
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Wichuda Sukwicha
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Michael C. Thigpen
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Varangrat
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Warapornmongkholkul
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Siobhan O'Connor
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Julie P. Ngo
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Noor Qaragholi
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Haley I. Sisel
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jasmine M. Truong
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Surang Janyam
- Service Workers in Group Foundation (SWING), Bangkok and Pattaya, Thailand
| | | | | | - Pachara Sirivongrangson
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | | | - Patrick Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Boosbun Chua-Intra
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Andrew C. Hickey
- Division of HIV Prevention, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of HIV Prevention, Thailand Ministry of Public Health-U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Jain JP, Hill M, Gamarel KE, Santos GM, Johnson MO, Neilands TB, Dilworth SE, Reback CJ, Sevelius J. Socio-ecological Barriers to Viral Suppression Among Transgender Women Living with HIV in San Francisco and Los Angeles, California. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:2523-2534. [PMID: 36682008 PMCID: PMC10362091 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-03979-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Troubling disparities in viral suppression persist among transgender (trans) women living with HIV in the US. We utilized baseline data from a randomized controlled trial of a behavioral intervention among trans women living with HIV in San Francisco and Los Angeles, to identify the socio-ecological correlates of biologically confirmed viral suppression (< 200 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL). Among 253 participants, the mean age was 43 (SD = 11), 46% identified as Black or African American and 35% were virally non-suppressed. In adjusted Poisson regression models, the following barriers to viral suppression were identified: injection drug use [adjusted risk ratio (aRR) 0.78, 95% CI 0.65-0.93, Z = - 2.64, p = 0.008], methamphetamine use (aRR 0.65, 95% CI 0.51-0.83, Z = - 3.45, p = 0.001), amphetamine use (aRR 0.62, 95% CI 0.44-0.87, Z = - 2.75, p = 0.006), homelessness (aRR 0.79, 95% CI 0.63-0.98, Z = - 2.06, p = 0.039), and sex work (aRR 0.60, 95% CI 0.41-0.86, Z = - 2.77, p = 0.009). These findings underscore the importance of interventions that address the socio-ecological barriers to viral suppression among trans women in urban settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer P Jain
- Department of Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
| | - Miranda Hill
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Kristi E Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Glenn-Milo Santos
- Department of Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Mallory O Johnson
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Samantha E Dilworth
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Cathy J Reback
- Friends Research Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Jae Sevelius
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Brooks SK, Patel SS, Greenberg N. Struggling, Forgotten, and Under Pressure: A Scoping Review of Experiences of Sex Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Arch Sex Behav 2023; 52:1969-2010. [PMID: 37311934 PMCID: PMC10263380 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02633-3] [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] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly affected physical, mental, and economic well-being across the globe and has disproportionately affected certain vulnerable groups. This paper provides a scoping review of literature on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sex workers, published between December 2019 and December 2022. Six databases were systematically searched, identifying 1009 citations; 63 studies were included in the review. Thematic analysis revealed eight main themes: financial issues; exposure to harm; alternate ways of working; COVID-19 knowledge, protective behaviors, fear, and risk; well-being, mental health, and coping; access to support; access to health care; and the impact of COVID-19 on research with sex workers. COVID-associated restrictions led to reduced work and income, leaving many sex workers struggling to cover basic needs; additionally, government protections excluded those working in the informal economy. Fearing the loss of their already reduced number of clients, many felt compelled to compromise both prices and protective measures. Although some engaged in online sex work, this raised concerns about visibility and was impossible for those without technological access or skills. Many feared COVID-19, but felt pressure to continue working, often with clients who refused to wear masks or share exposure history. Other negative impacts on well-being related to the pandemic included reduced access to financial support or health care. Marginalized populations (and especially those in professions which require close contact like sex workers) need further support and capacity-building within the community to recover from the impact of COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha K Brooks
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Weston Education Centre, London, SE5 9RJ, UK.
| | - Sonny S Patel
- Transcultural Conflict and Violence Initiative, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Neil Greenberg
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Weston Education Centre, London, SE5 9RJ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wang Y, Karver TS, Berg CJ, Barrington C, Donastorg Y, Perez M, Gomez H, Davis W, Galai N, Kerrigan D. Substance Use and Depression Impede ART Adherence Among Female Sex Workers Living with HIV in the Dominican Republic. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:2079-2088. [PMID: 36477652 PMCID: PMC10225324 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03940-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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSW) have worse HIV outcomes in part due to lower anti-retroviral therapy (ART) adherence. Substance use and depression are important barriers to ART adherence, yet few studies have assessed these relationships among FSW in longitudinal studies. Cross-Lagged Panel Models and autoregressive mediation analyses assessed substance use (illicit drug use and alcohol use disorders) in relation to ART non-adherence and the mediation role of depressive symptoms among 240 FSW living with HIV in the Dominican Republic. In annual visits (T1, T2, T3), the majority (70%, 66%, and 53%) reported at-risk drinking and 15%, 13% and 9% used illicit drug during the past 6 months. Most FSW (70%, 62% and 46%) had mild-to-severe depression. Illicit drug use predicted later ART non-adherence. This relationship was not mediated via depressive symptoms. Integrated substance use and HIV care interventions are needed to promote ART adherence and viral suppression among FSW.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Tahilin Sanchez Karver
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carla J Berg
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Clare Barrington
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Yeycy Donastorg
- HIV Vaccine Trials Research Unit, Instituto Dermatologico y Cirugia de la Piel, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Martha Perez
- HIV Vaccine Trials Research Unit, Instituto Dermatologico y Cirugia de la Piel, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Hoisex Gomez
- HIV Vaccine Trials Research Unit, Instituto Dermatologico y Cirugia de la Piel, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Wendy Davis
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Noya Galai
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Statistics, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Judge SM, Jackson KJ. The COVID-19 pandemic and male sex workers who have sex with men: associations between age and race and advertising for work in 2019-2021. Cult Health Sex 2023; 25:728-743. [PMID: 35819828 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2022.2092653] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Despite government-mandated restrictions on business and social activities worldwide, some sex workers continued to see clients in person throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. To better understand this behaviour, we compiled publicly available data from Internet advertisements posted on a popular website before and during the pandemic by male sex workers providing services to men. We first collected data in March 2019 from 172 advertisements - the complete number available at that time - posted by male sex workers advertising services in the Atlanta region. We then assessed whether these same sex workers continued to advertise their availability at three subsequent points during the COVID-19 pandemic: April 2020, January 2021 and February 2021. We also determined whether age and race were associated with advertising presence at each time point. While advertising rates declined among sex workers in all race categories (Black, White and 'other'), results from our mixed effects logistic regression model show that the odds of older male sex workers continuing to advertise were greater than the odds for their younger counterparts. Further, the predicted probability of continued advertising was highest for White male sex workers. Our findings provide additional insights into male sex work during a global pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shana M Judge
- Duddon Evidence to Policy Research, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Crooks J, Flemming K, Shulman C, Hudson B. Opportunities and challenges in involving people with lived experience of inclusion health as co-researchers in palliative and end of life research: a rapid review and thematic synthesis. Res Involv Engagem 2023; 9:25. [PMID: 37081580 PMCID: PMC10116696 DOI: 10.1186/s40900-023-00436-3] [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] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Co-research is a collaborative approach to research, promoting involvement of individuals with lived experience of a research area as experts by experience. Recently, the importance of co-research within palliative and end of life care (PEoLC) has been highlighted, yet few recommendations exist regarding best practice for involving inclusion health groups (i.e., groups that are socially excluded, typically experiencing multiple disadvantages that contribute to poor health outcomes). AIMS To identify and synthesise qualitative literature outlining barriers and facilitators for involving four inclusion health groups (individuals with lived experience of: homelessness, substance use disorder, incarceration or exchanging sex for money) in PEoLC research, from the perspectives of both the researchers and individuals with lived experience. METHODS This report is a rapid review with thematic synthesis methodology. Three electronic databases were searched (2012-30th August 2022). Thematic synthesis was used to generate themes across qualitative studies. RESULTS Three qualitative studies were eligible for inclusion. Two involved individuals with lived experience of incarceration, and one lived experience of homelessness. No papers outlined best-practice guidance for co-research; all offered reflections on the co-research process. Challenges for involvement included: facilitating appropriate reimbursement; overcoming stigma; fear of tokenism; pre-conceived views and the emotional burden of research. Successes and benefits included: advanced level of insight, a two-way learning opportunity and relatability of lived experience co-researchers. CONCLUSIONS This review did not identify any best-practice guidance for co-production of PEoLC research with inclusion health groups. There are few, good quality, qualitative studies offering insight into challenges and facilitators for lived experience co-researcher involvement. Further research and formal policy development is required to produce formal best-practice guidance to support safe, impactful inclusion in PEoLC research. It is important that researchers work together with people who have lived experience of the topic they are researching. Palliative care is specialised medical care for people living with a terminal illness. There is some collaboration between researchers and people with lived experience in palliative and end-of-life care research. However, some groups of people have been excluded. This includes people experiencing homelessness, or people with drug or alcohol addictions. This review aimed to understand what works and what doesn't work when involving four excluded groups in palliative and end-of-life research. These groups were people experiencing homelessness, those who had spent time in prison, people with drug or alcohol disorders, and people who exchanged sex for money. This review used a shortened methodology, which allowed it to be done quickly. Three online academic databases (Medline, PubMed, PsychINFO) were searched for research projects: three papers were included in the review. No clear guidance for working with these groups was found. Analysis identified themes across papers. Challenges for collaboration included: appropriate payment methods; overcoming stigma; fear of being talked down to,; assumptions made before meeting people, and the potential of becoming upset. Successes and benefits included: better understanding of the research topic, the opportunity to learn from one another, and how research participants could relate to lived experience co-researchers. There are few, good quality papers, but more research is needed to produce guidance to support safe, impactful collaboration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Flemming
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Caroline Shulman
- Pathway, London, UK
- Healthy London Partnership, London, UK
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Briony Hudson
- Research and Policy, Marie Curie, London, UK
- Pathway, London, UK
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Flores L, Young SD. Ethical Perspectives in Using Technology-Enabled Research for Key HIV Populations in Rights-Constrained Settings. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2023; 20:148-159. [PMID: 37022663 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-023-00654-0] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW People who use illicit drug substances (e.g., heroin) and sex workers are vulnerable to acquiring HIV. Due to the criminalization of illicit drug substances and sex work in many countries, these populations often reside in rights-constrained settings where their well-being, freedom, and access to HIV prevention and care services may be compromised due to legal prosecutions and societal stigma. RECENT FINDINGS This study conducted a literature review on papers that evaluated a combination of the following three components: ethics, technology-based research, and populations who use drug substances and/or sex workers. We explored research on these ethical perspectives from both key populations and researchers. Findings revealed potential risks in data security and possible harmful implications of compromised data within these rights-constrained settings. Best practices were explored within the literature to identify potential methods for addressing these ethical concerns and improving HIV prevention and care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Flores
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Informatics, University of California, 333 W. City Blvd., Suite 640, IrvineIrvine, CA, 92868, USA
| | - Sean D Young
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Informatics, University of California, 333 W. City Blvd., Suite 640, IrvineIrvine, CA, 92868, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Bano S, Rahat R, Fischer F. Inconsistent condom use for prevention of HIV/STIs among street-based transgender sex workers in Lahore, Pakistan: socio-ecological analysis based on a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:635. [PMID: 37013519 PMCID: PMC10068719 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15550-w] [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: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A large amount of new HIV infections worldwide is observed amongst key populations which include e.g., commercial sex workers or transgender people and their respective sexual partners. Therefore, this study examined the multi-level context of inconsistent condom use (ICU) in sexual interactions of transgender street-based workers (KSWs) with commercial and non-commercial sexual partners in Lahore. METHODS We conducted 20 in-depth interviews with street-based KSWs to investigate challenges to consistent condom utilization with sexual partners. The qualitative data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to produce an initial set of codes and identify broader themes through a recursive exploration of the text. RESULTS Within a socio-ecological analysis we identified factors influencing ICU among KSWs at three levels. At the individual level, we identified knowledge and awareness, age, pleasure and pain, and mental health issues impacting on ICU. perceived characteristics of sexual partners, dynamics of cruising spots and places of sexual interactions, competition in sex trade, violence and lack of safety nets in street-based sex work, and condom use with lovers were factors associated with ICU. Risk factors at community level were changing urban geography of sex work, discrimination, harassment and regular evictions, networks with non-governmental organizations and the influence of gurus and Dera culture. CONCLUSIONS Until now, HIV prevention efforts in Pakistan have primarily focused on HIV risk factors at the level of individual behaviors within specific networks of target populations. However, our study points towards both the effectiveness and the urgency of interventions that address macro-level risk factors specific to key populations in Pakistan, in addition to behavioral interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shermeen Bano
- Department of Sociology, Forman Christian College (A Chartered University), Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Rahla Rahat
- Institute of Social and Cultural Studies, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Florian Fischer
- Institute of Public Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
O'Doherty T, Cherrington K. Commodified BDSM Services: Professional Dominatrices' Views on Their Work and Its Criminalization. Arch Sex Behav 2023; 52:1285-1298. [PMID: 36508070 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02490-6] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
In this article, we report research participants' experiences providing professional bondage, discipline, sadism, masochism (BDSM), and other fetish services in Canada. Like many sexual service providers, professional dominatrices often argue that their work challenges patriarchal and oppressive systems of sexual and gender conformity. These women assert that Canadians misunderstand the range of activities that fall under "BDSM" and the dynamics of power within the provider/client relationship. As a result, misrepresentations and inaccuracies form the basis of Canadian laws, which open professional BDSM practitioners to criminalization and remove provider and client autonomy to consent. The 35 professional dominatrices who participated in our mixed-method study challenge this narrow interpretation of their work, suggesting that Canadian law denying bodily autonomy in this context fails to reflect the realities of professional BDSM. Rather than protection from violence, the mischaracterization of the services as criminal in nature serves to perpetuate marginalization, increase vulnerability to exploitation, and maintain stigmatization of non-normative sexualities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamara O'Doherty
- School of Criminology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Kathleen Cherrington
- Department of Gender, Feminist, and Women's Studies, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Jones AA, Schneider KE, Tobin KE, O'Sullivan D, Latkin CA. Daily opioid and stimulant co-use and nonfatal overdoses in the context of social disadvantage: Findings on marginalized populations. J Subst Use Addict Treat 2023:208986. [PMID: 36822268 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.208986] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Opioids and stimulants are increasingly implicated in overdose deaths, particularly among minoritized groups. We examined daily opioid and cocaine co-use, nonfatal overdoses, and naloxone carrying among minoritized people who inject drugs (PWID). METHODS The study derived data from 499 PWID in Baltimore City, MD, recruited using street-based outreach between 2016 and 2019. Participants reported overdoses; sociodemographic characteristics; and use of nonmedical prescription opioids, heroin, cocaine, and naloxone. RESULTS Among the participants, the mean age was 46, 34 % were female, 64 % self-identified as Black, and 53 % experienced recent homelessness. Black PWID, compared to White PWID, were as likely to use opioids and cocaine daily but were 61 % less likely to have naloxone. After controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, women (aOR:1.88, 95%CI: 1.14, 3.11), persons experiencing homelessness (aOR:3.07, 95%CI: 1.79, 5.24), and those who experienced a recent overdose (aOR:2.14, 95%CI: 1.29, 3.58) were significantly more likely to use opioids and any form of cocaine every day. In a subanalysis of only female PWID, females engaged in sex work (aOR:2.27, 95%CI: 1.02, 5.07) and females experiencing recent homelessness (aOR:5.82, 95%CI: 2.50, 13.52) were significantly more likely to use opioids and cocaine daily. Furthermore, females (aOR:1.69, 95%CI:1.03, 2.77), persons experiencing homelessness (aOR:1.94, 95%CI:1.16, 3.24), and those with higher educational attainment (aOR:2.06, 95%CI:1.09, 3.91) were more likely to often/always carry naloxone, while Black PWID were less likely to have naloxone (aOR:0.39, 95%CI:0.22, 0.69). CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the need for targeted naloxone distribution and other harm-reduction interventions among minoritized groups in urban areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A A Jones
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, The Pennsylvania State University, USA.
| | - K E Schneider
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, John Hopkins University, USA
| | - K E Tobin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, John Hopkins University, USA
| | - D O'Sullivan
- Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education, The Pennsylvania State University, USA
| | - C A Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, John Hopkins University, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Butterworth J, Pearson S, von Hippel W. Dual Mating Strategies Observed in Male Clients of Female Sex Workers. Hum Nat 2023. [PMID: 36800116 DOI: 10.1007/s12110-023-09439-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Humans have a complex and dynamic mating system, and there is evidence that our modern sexual preferences stem from evolutionary pressures. In the current paper we explore male use of a dual mating strategy: simultaneously pursuing both a long-term relationship (pair-bonding) as well as short-term, extra-pair copulations (variety-seeking). The primary constraint on such sexual pursuits is partner preferences, which can limit male behavior and hence cloud inferences about male preferences. The aim of this study was to investigate heterosexual male mating preferences when largely unconstrained by female partner preferences. In service of this goal, female full-service sex workers (N = 6) were surveyed on the traits and behaviors of their male clients (N = 516) and iterative cluster analysis was used to identify male mating typologies. Two clusters emerged: clients seeking a pair-bonding experience and clients seeking a variety experience. Results also suggested that romantically committed men were more likely to seek a variety experience than a relationship experience. We conclude that men desire both pair-bonding and sexual variety, and that their preference for one might be predicted by fulfilment of the other. These findings have implications for relationships, providing insight into motivations for male infidelity.
Collapse
|
33
|
Airaksinen T. Agonistic approaches to sexuality: A critical analysis of the conservative mindset. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13410. [PMID: 36820035 PMCID: PMC9937883 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Why do so many people attack sexualities they do not desire and which do not harm them independently of their negative emotions? This is a question to conservative audiences whose anxious reactions this study aims to explain. I introduce seven principles to clarify the situation. The Foundational Principle sketches the basic normative rules. The Hyperbolic Principle recognizes the ever-present exaggeration of sex narratives. According to the Imaginary Principle, extreme imaginings will become too painful to bear. The Principle of de se Reading of Sexual Thought explains contagious emotions and vicarious arousal. The Principle of Motivation argues that sexual images are intrinsically arousing and thus prima facie motivating. According to the Principle of Safety, an unacceptable sexual desire feels unsafe and risky. The Exclusionary Principle says, if a person fails to recognize a given sexual desire, she rejects it. This is the principle that characterizes a conservative reaction to unaccepted sexuality. These negative socio-psychological facts have not attracted adequate attention in sexuality studies. Yet, anxious conservative audiences have the political power to jeopardize liberal policy formation, sex education, and LGBT/BDSM lifestyles. The method of this study is conceptual and philosophical. Its premises and result should lead to empirical verification. At the same time, I suggest a more sophisticated conceptual and linguistic framework for advancing the critical discussion of moral tradition, scientific sexuality studies, and diagnostic art.
Collapse
|
34
|
Leyva-Moral JM, Castro Ávila J, Villar M, López B, Adell H, Meroño M, Santander K, Ferrer L, Mesías-Gazmuri J, Astudillo Alonso R, Rojas Castro D, Casabona J, Folch C. Impact of the COVID-19 Health Crisis on Trans Women and Cis Men Sex Workers in Spain. Arch Sex Behav 2023; 52:629-638. [PMID: 36066681 PMCID: PMC9447961 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02405-5] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sex workers in accessing health and social services. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 29 participants in Barcelona, Spain. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Four themes were identified: (1) impact of COVID-19 on physical/mental health, (2) barriers and facilitators to health/social service access, (3) health decision-making, and (4) suggestions for future pandemic situations. Barriers to accessing health services were structural. Non-governmental organization support was the main facilitating factor. A person-centered, intersectional approach is suggested for future practice, considering co-occurring syndemic factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan M Leyva-Moral
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Medicine, Grup de Recerca Infermera en Vulnerabilitat i Salut (GRIVIS), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain.
| | | | | | - Beti López
- Fundació Àmbit Prevenció, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Kevin Santander
- Stop Sida, Barcelona, Spain
- Clinical Instructor at Nursing Department, Universtiat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Ferrer
- Departament de Salut, Generalitat de Catalunya, Centre d'Estudis Epidemiològics Sobre Les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual i Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Badalona, Spain
- Departament d'Igualtat i Diversitat Ciutadana, Ajuntament de Mataró, Mataró, Spain
| | - Jocelyn Mesías-Gazmuri
- Departament de Salut, Generalitat de Catalunya, Centre d'Estudis Epidemiològics Sobre Les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual i Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Badalona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Rocío Astudillo Alonso
- Departament de Salut | Generalitat de Catalunya, ASSIR Esquerra Barcelona, Servei Trànsit Barcelona. Institut Català de La Salut, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Jordi Casabona
- Departament de Salut, Generalitat de Catalunya, Centre d'Estudis Epidemiològics Sobre Les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual i Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Badalona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cinta Folch
- Departament de Salut, Generalitat de Catalunya, Centre d'Estudis Epidemiològics Sobre Les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual i Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Badalona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Harris MT, Goldenberg S, Cui Z, Fairbairn N, Milloy MJS, Hayashi K, Samet JH, Walley AY, Nolan S. Association of sex work and social-structural factors with non-fatal overdose among women who use drugs in Vancouver, Canada. Int J Drug Policy 2023; 112:103950. [PMID: 36640591 PMCID: PMC9974922 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103950] [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: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who use drugs (WWUD) and engage in sex work experience disproportionate sex- and drug-related harms, such as HIV, however comparatively little is known about their overdose risk. Therefore, we examined the association between sex work and overdose and secondarily explored the association of social-structural factors, such as policing and gendered violence, with overdose. METHODS Data were derived from two community cohort studies based in Vancouver, Canada between 2005 to 2018. We used logistic regression with GEE to examine the associations between a) sex work and nonfatal overdose and b) social-structural and individual variables with overdose among WWUD who engaged in sex work during the study. Sex work, overdose, and other variables were time-updated, captured every six months. RESULTS Among 857 WWUD included, 56% engaged in sex work during the study. Forty-three percent of WWUD engaged in sex work had at least one overdose compared to 26% of WWUD who did not. Sex work was not significantly associated with an increased odds of overdose (AOR = 1.14, 95% CI: 0.93-1.40). In the exploratory analysis amongst 476 WWUD engaged in sex work, social-structural variables associated with overdose in the multivariable model included exposure to: punitive policing (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.30-2.96) and physical or sexual violence (OR = 2.55, 95% CI: 1.88-3.46). CONCLUSIONS WWUD engaged in sex work had an increased overdose burden that may be driven by social-structural factors rather than sex work itself. Interventions that address policing and gendered violence represent potential targets for effective overdose prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Th Harris
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Boston Medical Center, One Boston Medical Center Place, Boston, MA, 02118, USA; Clinical Addiction Research and Education (CARE) Unit, Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
| | - Shira Goldenberg
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA, 92182, USA; Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, St Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard St., Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 553B-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - Zishan Cui
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 553B-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Nadia Fairbairn
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 553B-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - M-J S Milloy
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 553B-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 553B-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Jeffrey H Samet
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Boston Medical Center, One Boston Medical Center Place, Boston, MA, 02118, USA; Clinical Addiction Research and Education (CARE) Unit, Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Alexander Y Walley
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Boston Medical Center, One Boston Medical Center Place, Boston, MA, 02118, USA; Clinical Addiction Research and Education (CARE) Unit, Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Seonaid Nolan
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 553B-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Barrington C, Goldenberg T, Donastorg Y, Gomez H, Perez M, Kerrigan D. Stigma and HIV Treatment Outcomes Among Transgender Women Sex Workers in the Dominican Republic. AIDS Behav 2023:10.1007/s10461-023-04001-7. [PMID: 36723770 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04001-7] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Trans women experience multiple forms of intersecting stigma due to trans identity, HIV, and sex work, which can negatively affect their health. There is limited understanding of the relationships between stigma and HIV care and treatment outcomes. We assessed associations between multiple forms and types of stigma and HIV treatment outcomes among trans women who conduct sex work in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic using cross-sectional survey data. Most participants had received HIV care (91%) and were currently taking anti-retroviral therapy (ART) (84%). Only 64% were virally suppressed. Nearly one-third (32%) had interrupted ART at some point; those who had never interrupted ART were more likely to be suppressed. Drug use was associated with ART interruption. Higher enacted HIV stigma was associated with current ART use. Higher enacted HIV stigma and higher anticipated sex work stigma were associated with ART adherence. Higher trans stigma was associated with being virally suppressed. Findings highlight the importance of addressing multiple forms of stigma at the individual and clinic levels to improve and sustain viral suppression. Future research is needed to assess if unexpected associations between stigma and HIV outcomes reflect processes of resilience. Future research is also needed to assess the pathways between drug use, ART interruption, and viral suppression among trans women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clare Barrington
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, US.
| | - Tamar Goldenberg
- Department of Public Health Education, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, US
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, US
| | - Yeycy Donastorg
- HIV Vaccine Research Unit, Instituto Dermatológico y Cirugía de Piel Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Hoisex Gomez
- HIV Vaccine Research Unit, Instituto Dermatológico y Cirugía de Piel Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Martha Perez
- HIV Vaccine Research Unit, Instituto Dermatológico y Cirugía de Piel Dr. Huberto Bogaert Díaz, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, US
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Probst U. Health insurance for the good European citizen? Migrant sex workers' quests for health insurance and the moral economy of health care. Soc Sci Med 2023; 319:115190. [PMID: 35835595 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
European health insurance systems have become increasingly fragmented due to neoliberal health care reforms and the privatization of health care. Attempts to enable transnational access to public health care services throughout the European Union (EU) have contributed to this process by spreading ideas of EU citizens as consumers having to make informed choices about health insurance. However, marginalized populations such as EU migrant sex workers are presented with only limited choices within these systems. This article highlights how these limitations in access to health insurance are not only related to financial precarities, but are also caused by underlying racialized, classist, and sexualized assumptions about citizenship and belonging which influence the legal framework of both national and EU-wide health insurance provision. Based on ethnographic research with migrants from eastern EU countries involved in sex work in Berlin, the article discusses their attempts to gain access to health insurance as a salient example of the moral economy of health insurance provision in a supposedly universal health care system. Following how migrant sex workers from eastern European countries experience and negotiate exclusions from health insurance systems, the article addresses how meanings and interpretations of health insurance change towards an understanding of health insurance not as a right, but as a privilege for those conforming to narrow ideas of European citizenship. This indicates that current restructurings of health insurance systems are not only characterized by increasing privatization. Equally, the (re-)emergence of links between access to health insurance and restrictive ideas of belonging and citizenship rights are undermining aspirations for transnationally available universal health care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Probst
- Institute of Social and Cultural Anthropology, Freie Universität Berlin, Landoltweg 9-11, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Stoebenau K, Dunkle K, Willan S, Shai N, Gibbs A. Assessing risk factors and health impacts across different forms of exchange sex among young women in informal settlements in South Africa: A cross-sectional study. Soc Sci Med 2023; 318:115637. [PMID: 36628880 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115637] [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: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
For women in South Africa, engaging in exchange sex, including transactional sex (TS), or sex work (SW), is associated with several shared poor health outcomes; yet the practices themselves differ in meaningful ways. SW is a form of commodity exchange, while TS is grounded in gendered relationship expectations of male provision and aspects of emotional intimacy. Additionally, exchange sex types could be imagined on a "continuum of instrumentality" from relationships that do not include material support; to those characterized, but not driven by support; to those primarily motivated by material support. We use cross-sectional data from 644 women ages 18-30 enrolled in a trial addressing intimate partner violence in urban KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa to assess whether these conceptualizations may also map onto different types or levels of risk. Using self-reports, we developed four exchange sex relationship categories corresponding to a continuum of instrumentality: no exchange-based relationship; TS with a main partner only; TS with a casual partner; and SW. Using tests of association and adjusted logistic regression models, we compared socio-economic and behavioural risk factors, and health outcomes across reported forms of exchange sex. We find little difference between women who report no exchange sex and those who report TS only with a main partner. By contrast, as compared to women not in exchange sex, women in casual TS and SW were poorer, and significantly more likely to report problematic alcohol use, past drug use, prior non-partner sexual violence, and PTSD; with aOR higher for women in SW for many outcomes. When comparing casual TS to SW, we find women in SW held more gender equitable attitudes and were more likely to report modern contraceptive use. We discuss the implications for distinguishing between TS and SW, and use of the continuum of instrumentality conceptualization for research and programming.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Stoebenau
- University of Maryland School of Public Health, Department of Behavioral and Community Health, 4200 Valley Drive, College Park, MD, USA.
| | - Kristin Dunkle
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Samantha Willan
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nwabisa Shai
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Andrew Gibbs
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa; Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK; Centre for Rural Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Restrepo Pineda JE, Villegas Rojas S. [Factors associated with condom use among sex workers of venezuelan origin in ColombiaFatores associados ao uso de preservativo em profissionais do sexo de origem venezuelana na Colômbia]. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2023; 47:e2. [PMID: 36874150 PMCID: PMC9910315 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2023.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe the factors that determine condom use in Venezuelan immigrant sex workers in Colombia. Methods A qualitative study was conducted with an interpretive hermeneutic approach, using semi-structured interviews developed in the Metropolitan Area of Aburrá Valley, Bogotá, and the Colombian coffee-growing region. Results Fifty-five interviews were conducted. Of the total number of people interviewed, 60% were cisgender men, 31% were cisgender women, and 9% were transgender women. The average age of the participants was 27 years. Sixty-nine percent were irregular migrants in Colombia. Only 11% were affiliated with the health system. It was observed that condom use is inconsistent among sex workers, depending on personal and social factors. Conclusions The factors that influence condom use in sex workers of Venezuelan origin in Colombia are determined by various factors, both personal and social. Personal factors relate to knowledge, support networks, and risk perception, while social factors are associated with substance use, stigma and discrimination, and the places where sex work is done. Social factors are the ones that most influence inconsistent condom use in cisgender men and transgender women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jair Eduardo Restrepo Pineda
- Corporación Universitaria Minuto de Dios - UNIMINUTO Bogotá Colombia Corporación Universitaria Minuto de Dios - UNIMINUTO, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Soraya Villegas Rojas
- Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira Risaralda Colombia Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Jones A. 'People need to know we exist!': an exploratory study of the labour experiences of transmasculine and non-binary sex workers and implications for harm reduction. Cult Health Sex 2023; 25:48-62. [PMID: 35015966 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2021.2018500] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This article presents findings demonstrating that transmasculine and non-binary people work in sex industries worldwide. Informed by results from a qualitative study with transmasculine and non-binary sex workers, it provides much-needed demographic information about this population, their clients and workers' safety concerns. It explores the importance of using an intersectional framework and inclusive methods to gather demographic data regarding gender and sexuality in studies of sex work. Not only is an intersectional framework necessary for empirical studies of sex work, but it is also vital to developing successful harm reduction strategies. Using an intersectional frame in studies of sex work and harm reduction can provide much-needed insight into the development of inclusive services and programmes that help the most marginal. So long as researchers, social service agencies and health providers treat transmasculine and non-binary providers as non-existent, this reduces their ability to meet the needs of all sex workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Jones
- Department of Sociology & Anthropology, Farmingdale State College, State University of New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Rushmore J, Buchacz K, Broz D, Agnew-Brune CB, Jones MLJ, Cha S. Factors Associated with Exchange Sex Among Cisgender Persons Who Inject Drugs: Women and MSM-23 U.S. Cities, 2018. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:51-64. [PMID: 35750928 PMCID: PMC10208374 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03743-0] [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] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Persons who inject drugs (PWID) and exchange sex face disproportionate HIV rates. We assessed prevalence of exchange sex (receiving money/drugs for sex from ≥ 1 male partner(s) during the past year) among cisgender PWID, separately for women and men with a history of sex with men (MSM). We examined factors associated with exchange sex, including sociodemographic characteristics, sexual and drug use behaviors, and healthcare access/utilization. Over one-third of the 4657 participants reported exchange sex (women: 36.2%; MSM: 34.8%). Women who exchanged sex (WES) were significantly more likely to test HIV-positive than other women. Men who exchanged sex with men (MESM) showed a similar trend. WES and MESM shared many characteristics, including being uninsured, experiencing recent homelessness, condomless sex, polydrug use, and receptive/distributive needle sharing. These findings highlight a need to strengthen prevention interventions and address structural determinants of HIV for WES and MESM, particularly PWID who exchange sex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Rushmore
- Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Kate Buchacz
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dita Broz
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christine B Agnew-Brune
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Michelle L Johnson Jones
- Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Susan Cha
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Mailstop E-46, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
West BS, Agah N, Roth A, Conners EE, Staines-Orozco H, Magis-Rodriguez C, Brouwer KC. Sex Work Venue Disorder and HIV/STI Risk Among Female Sex Workers in Two México-US Border Cities: A Latent Class Analysis. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:82-95. [PMID: 35687193 PMCID: PMC10399957 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03746-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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Research increasingly recognizes the importance of social and built environments in shaping health, including risks for and outcomes related to HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI), but research on sex work venues is limited. We use latent class analysis to identify patterns of sex work venue characteristics and factors associated with class membership in two México-US border cities. Among 603 female sex workers (FSW), three classes of sex work venues were identified: low, medium, and high disorder venues, characterized by level of violence, policing and drug activity. In multivariable analysis, risk exposures and outcomes varied by class, suggesting the need for place-based interventions that are tailored to specific venue profiles and that promote FSW health and safety in the workplace.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brooke S West
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, 10027, NY, NY, USA.
| | - Niloufar Agah
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Alexis Roth
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Erin E Conners
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Hugo Staines-Orozco
- Department of Medical Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez, Ciudad Juárez, México
| | - Carlos Magis-Rodriguez
- Centro Nacional para la Prevención y el Control del VIH y el SIDA (CENSIDA), México City, México
| | - Kimberly C Brouwer
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Stockton MA, Kraemer J, Oga E, Kimani J, Mbote D, Kemunto C, Njuguna S, Nyblade L. Validation of a Brief Internalized Sex-work Stigma Scale among Female Sex Workers in Kenya. J Sex Res 2023; 60:146-152. [PMID: 34622725 PMCID: PMC8989712 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1983752] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSW) often face severe stigma and discrimination and are extremely vulnerable to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. In the fields of HIV and mental health, internalized stigma is associated with poor health care engagement. Due to the lack of valid, standardized measures for internalized sex work-related stigma, its dimensions and role are not well-understood. This study aimed to validate the six-item Internalized AIDS-Related Stigma Scale adapted to capture internalized sex work-related stigma by examining the scale's psychometric properties and performance among a cross-sectional, snowball sample of FSW (N = 497) in Kenya. While the original pre-hypothesized six-item model yielded acceptable CFI and SRMR values (CFI = 0.978 and SRMR = 0.038), the RMSEA was higher than desirable (RMSEA = 0.145). Our final four-item model demonstrated improved goodness of fit indices (RMSEA = 0.053; CFI = 0.999; and SRMR = 0.005). Both the pre-hypothesized six-item and reduced final four-item model demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's alphas of 0.8162 and 0.8754, respectively). Higher levels of internalized stigma were associated with depression, riskier sexual behavior, and reduced condom use. This very brief measure will allow for reliable assessment of internalized stigma among FSW. Further investigation of internalized stigma among male sex workers, particularly the intersection of sex work-related and same-sex behavior-related stigmas, is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A. Stockton
- Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Department of Psychiatry, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, USA
| | - John Kraemer
- Department of Health Systems Administration, Georgetown University, Washington DC, USA
- Global Health Division, International Development Group, RTI International, Washington DC, USA
| | - Emmanuel Oga
- Center for Applied Public Health Research, RTI International, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, University of Nairobi, Nairobi; Kenya
| | - David Mbote
- Kuria Foundation for Social Enterprise, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Laura Nyblade
- Global Health Division, International Development Group, RTI International, Washington DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Badgett K. Antecedents of Job Satisfaction for Migrant Chinese Sex Workers. Arch Sex Behav 2023; 52:443-457. [PMID: 36348152 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02462-w] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study is an empirical response to the scholarly debate regarding sex work and sex worker empowerment. It drew on job satisfaction literature to derive a theoretical model of pathways for job satisfaction in sex work. It tested this model with data from 96 migrant sex workers from China. It used Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) to examine the conjunctive pathways among workers who reported that they were satisfied with their vocation. Of the 96 women interviewed, 12 experienced job satisfaction. QCA identified three antecedent conditions as necessary for producing job satisfaction and two additional conditions, either one of which was also necessary. Job satisfaction required: (1) full awareness of the nature of their work prior to starting, (2) perceived agency, and (3) enjoyment of earnings, beyond meeting survival needs. It also required at least one of two additional antecedents: perceiving workplace autonomy or having a favorable workplace environment. This study demonstrates that, while genuine job satisfaction may be relatively rare for sex workers, there are pathways that make it possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Badgett
- Rutgers School of Criminal Justice, Rutgers University, 123 Washington Street, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Perri M, Shareck M, Buhariwala P, Hassan M, Balla E, O'Campo P. Assessing program fidelity to critically reflect on the suitability of Critical Time Intervention to facilitate exiting sex work. Transl Behav Med 2022; 12:1106-1112. [PMID: 36190345 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibac047] [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: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
An emerging approach to facilitating exiting sex work is through applying the Critical Time Intervention [CTI] model. CTI represents a time-limited approach that supports marginalized individuals during periods of transition. We performed a fidelity assessment as part of a process evaluation of Exit Doors Here [EDH], a program supporting women who wish to exit sex work. We reflect on the appropriateness of the CTI model for supporting these women, and highlight contextual and population specificities which might need to be considered for effective scaling up of similar programs. First, we applied an existing fidelity assessment tool to the EDH program. Program staff highlighted areas for adaptation. We then adapted the tool based on this feedback and assessed program fidelity by analyzing data from eight participants' CTI charts. Fidelity ratings were computed and interpreted according to established guidelines. Consultations with program staff resulted in adaptations to seven of the 12 fidelity assessment tool items. The majority of adaptations surrounded the time-limited nature of CTI and unique needs of the program participants such as their experiences with violence and substance use. The fidelity assessment of the adapted tool demonstrated that even after adaptations were made, certain items were still not appropriate for this study population. Difficulties in implementing selected program components with high fidelity can be attributed to contextual and population specificities of the study population. This study reiterates the importance of considering such factors when developing and implementing programs aimed at improving the health and livelihoods of marginalized women such as those who engage in sex work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Perri
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Martine Shareck
- Département des sciences de la santé communautaire, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Pearl Buhariwala
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Maha Hassan
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Patricia O'Campo
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Halkett A, O’Grady SM, Hinshaw SP. An Exploratory Investigation of Childhood Sexual Abuse and Other Theory-Driven Predictors of Sex Work Among Women with and without Childhood ADHD. J Child Adolesc Trauma 2022; 15:949-962. [PMID: 36439670 PMCID: PMC9684379 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-022-00467-0] [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] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Limited research has identified prospective risk factors for young-adult sex work or examined overlapping predictors concurrently. We investigated childhood sexual abuse (CSA), along with other theory-driven predictors of sex work, among a well-characterized sample of girls with and without childhood diagnoses of attention/deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). METHODS Participants were a racially and socioeconomically diverse sample of 140 girls with rigorously diagnosed ADHD (47 Inattentive [ADHD-I], 93 Combined [ADHD-C]), and 88 age- and ethnicity-matched comparison girls, all followed longitudinally into adulthood. Self-report data on young-adult occupations revealed a subsample of 7 participants reporting engagement in "sex work" or "prostitution." Logistic regressions tested whether CSA, measured both dichotomously and by discrete age ranges, predicted later sex work, accounting for other risk factors. RESULTS A lifetime history of CSA was positively associated with sex work in initial analyses (β = 1.51, p = .045), but not after adjusting for additional risk factors. When examined by age ranges, only CSA occurring between ages 9-15 significantly predicted sex work (β = 2.84, p = .043), even after adjusting for additional risk factors. Childhood ADHD-C also emerged as a significant predictor (β = 4.94, p = .015). ADHD-related medication and years of education were protective factors only when CSA was considered dichotomously. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this exploratory study underscore the need for longitudinal research that (a) considers the developmental timing of CSA and (b) accounts for impulsivity and inattention as risk factors for sex work among young-adult women. Implications for clinical practice are briefly discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Halkett
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way West, Berkeley, CA 94704 USA
| | - Sinclaire M. O’Grady
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way West, Berkeley, CA 94704 USA
| | - Stephen P. Hinshaw
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way West, Berkeley, CA 94704 USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Platt L, Bowen R, Grenfell P, Stuart R, Sarker MD, Hill K, Walker J, Javarez X, Henham C, Mtetwa S, Hargreaves J, Boily MC, Vickerman P, Hernandez P, Elmes J. The Effect of Systemic Racism and Homophobia on Police Enforcement and Sexual and Emotional Violence among Sex Workers in East London: Findings from a Cohort Study. J Urban Health 2022; 99:1127-1140. [PMID: 36222972 PMCID: PMC9727011 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-022-00673-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
There is extensive qualitative evidence of violence and enforcement impacting sex workers who are ethnically or racially minoritized, and gender or sexual minority sex workers, but there is little quantitative evidence. Baseline and follow-up data were collected among 288 sex workers of diverse genders (cis/transgender women and men and non-binary people) in London (2018-2019). Interviewer-administered and self-completed questionnaires included reports of rape, emotional violence, and (un)lawful police encounters. We used generalized estimating equation models (Stata vs 16.1) to measure associations between (i) ethnic/racial identity (Black, Asian, mixed or multiple vs White) and recent (6 months) or past police enforcement and (ii) ethnic/racial and sexual identity (lesbian, gay or bisexual (LGB) vs. heterosexual) with recent rape and emotional violence (there was insufficient data to examine the association with transgender/non-binary identities). Ethnically/racially minoritized sex workers (26.4%) reported more police encounters partly due to increased representation in street settings (51.4% vs 30.7% off-street, p = 0.002). After accounting for street setting, ethnically/racially minoritized sex workers had higher odds of recent arrest (adjusted odds ratio 2.8, 95% CI 1.3-5.8), past imprisonment (aOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1-5.0), police extortion (aOR 3.3, 95% CI 1.4-7.8), and rape (aOR 3.6, 95% CI 1.1-11.5). LGB-identifying sex workers (55.4%) were more vulnerable to rape (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1-5.2) and emotional violence. Sex workers identifying as ethnically/racially minoritized (aOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.0-4.5), LGB (aOR 2.0, 95% CI 1.0-4.0), or who use drugs (aOR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1-3.8) were more likely to have experienced emotional violence than white-identifying, heterosexual or those who did not use drugs. Experience of any recent police enforcement was associated with increased odds of rape (aOR 3.6, 95% CI 1.3-8.4) and emotional violence (aOR 4.9, 95% CI 1.8-13.0). Findings show how police enforcement disproportionately targets ethnically/racially minoritized sex workers and contributes to increased risk of rape and emotional violence, which is elevated among sexual and ethnically/racially minoritized workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Platt
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | | | - Pippa Grenfell
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rachel Stuart
- College of Business, Arts and Social Sciences, Brunel University, London, UK
| | - M D Sarker
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kathleen Hill
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Josephine Walker
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Xavier Javarez
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Carolyn Henham
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - James Hargreaves
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - M-C Boily
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Paz Hernandez
- Open Doors, Homerton University Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jocelyn Elmes
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Vijayakumar G, Panchanadeswaran S, Chacko S, Halford SJ, Subramaniam S. Between pandemics: sex worker, sexual minority, and transgender activism from HIV to COVID-19. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3596-3610. [PMID: 36263592 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2124531] [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: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Public health crises alter political landscapes. This article investigates social movement strategies during and between the HIV and COVID-19 pandemics. We conducted a set of eighteen in-depth interviews with eleven leaders of organisations working with sex workers, sexual minorities, and transgender people around India, all of whom had been actively involved in HIV prevention programs, before and after the arrival of COVID-19 in India. First HIV, and then COVID-19, altered the political landscape for these groups in relation to three types of institutions: (1) donors (by creating dramatic increases and decreases in the amount, type, and conditions of global funding and deepening inequalities among organisations) (2) the state (by shifting the balance of advocacy and human rights work toward immediate relief); and (3) other social movements (by expanding solidarities across groups but also placing them in competition for limited resources). We argue that, to weather these dramatic shifts, organisations relied on internal alliances and resources built in and after periods of crisis. In this way, despite the differences between the two pandemics, the legacies of HIV shaped the response to COVID-19. Though responses to COVID-19 seem improvised and temporary, they build on a longer-term social movement infrastructure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sarah J Halford
- Department of Sociology, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Crago AL, Bruckert C, Braschel M, Shannon K. Violence against sex workers: Correlates and Changes under 'End-Demand' legislation in Canada: A five city study. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3557-3567. [PMID: 35787234 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2092181] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Canada is among several countries to have implemented 'end-demand' criminalization frameworks for sex work. Drawing on interviews with sex workers (n = 200) in five cities, we employed multivariate logistic regression to identify associations with workplace violence. We also analysed descriptive data on trafficking and on workplace violence under end-demand legislation. In the past 12 months, being unable to call 911 in a safety emergency at work for fear of police detection (Adjusted Odd Ratio AOR: 4.307, 95% Confidence Interval CI: 1.697 -10.927), being unable to screen clients due to fear of police detection (AOR: 2.175, 95% CI: 1.074 -4.405), having experienced anti-sex work housing policy/eviction (AOR: 2.031, 95% CI: 0.897-4.598), and being Indigenous (Adjusted Odd Ratio (AOR): 2.167, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.060-4.428) were all independently associated with workplace violence in the past 12 months. Of those who worked prior to the law change (n = 167), a majority of respondents (80.24% (134)) reported that violence in the workplace had increased or stayed the same compared to the previous criminalization model and 87.43% (n = 146) reported it was harder or the same to get help in an emergency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - C Bruckert
- Department of Criminology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - M Braschel
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kate Shannon
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
In 2012, the World Health Organization guidelines for HIV prevention recommended the decriminalisation of sex work as their number one good practice. Although human rights language played a key role in the international scientific and activist endorsement of the WHO policies, since then there have been few initiatives in terms of advancing the kinds of structural and political changes endorsed. In this Commentary, we reflect on sex work's place in the broader field of the biomedicalization of responses to HIV. The analysis is based on literature reviews and our research trajectories, including preliminary results from a qualitative study on the implementation of PrEP in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We argue that sex workers occupy an ambiguous and less visible role in current AIDS policies, and that such policies are increasingly characterised by their prioritisation of biomedical approaches over structural factors. These shifts should be understood as part of a broader, global hegemony of clinical responses to HIV prevention and the continuation of a neoliberal discourse around human rights, without adequate investment in the material conditions necessary to guarantee these rights.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura R Murray
- Centre on Public Policy and Human Rights, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (NEPP-DH/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mauro Brigeiro
- Laboratory of Environmental and Health Education, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Simone Monteiro
- Laboratory of Environmental and Health Education, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|