Prevalence of HIV infection and sexually transmitted diseases and associated risk factors among female sex workers in Guangdong province

ObjectiveTo analyze the prevalence of HIV infection and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and explore the risk factors associated with STDs among female sex workers (FSWs) in a prefecture in Guangdong Province, provide evidence to develop intervention strategies. MethodsRespondent-driven sampling (RDS) was used to recruit FSWs in the community. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to collect information on risk behaviors by using structured questionnaires. Blood samples were taken to test HIV and syphilis antibody and cervical swabs were taken for the detection of gonorrhea and Chlamydia. ResultsA total of 320 FSWs were recruited from the community. Laboratory testing revealed that the prevalence of HIV infection was 0%, the prevalence of syphilis, gonorrhea and Chlamydia was 8.0%, 9.5% and 3.9% respectively; the prevalence of other STD was 19.7%. The multivariate logistic regression model indicated that ones years of education and perception of risk for HIV infection were protective factors from STDs. Awareness of AIDS only, condom use by regular sex partners will, lower level facility and higher charge for commercial sex were risk factors associated with STDs. ConclusionHIV prevalence among FSWs in Guangdong was low and the prevalence of STDs is relatively high. The intervention programs should cover low- class FSWs and the interventions to regular sex partners of FSWs should be conducted too.