High STI Rates Among Female Sex Workers in Cambodia
Author Information
Author(s): Sopheab Heng, Morineau Guy, Neal Joyce J, Saphonn Vonthanak, Fylkesnes Knut
Primary Institution: National Center for HIV/AIDS, Dermatology and STDs, Cambodia
Hypothesis
What are the prevalence rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among female sex workers (FSWs) in Cambodia and what factors are associated with these rates?
Conclusion
The prevalence of STIs among new female sex workers is significantly higher than among those with more experience, indicating a need for targeted prevention efforts.
Supporting Evidence
- 80% of FSWs reported always using condoms with clients.
- New FSWs had a 30% higher prevalence of STIs compared to those with more experience.
- The prevalence of syphilis was 2.3%, chlamydia 14.4%, and gonorrhoea 13.0%.
Takeaway
New female sex workers in Cambodia are getting sick more often from infections that can be passed through sex, and we need to help them stay safe.
Methodology
The study involved a survey of 1079 female sex workers across eight provinces, testing for STIs and collecting demographic and behavioral data.
Potential Biases
Potential biases include social desirability bias in self-reported condom use and STI symptoms.
Limitations
The study may not fully capture the experiences of non-brothel-based sex workers and relies on self-reported data, which can be biased.
Participant Demographics
55% of participants were aged 15-24, and 60% had been in sex work for 12 months or less.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.21, 3.78
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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