Prevalence of HIV and factors associated with risk behaviours among Chinese female sex workers in Hong Kong

Abstract

The study examined the HIV prevalence and factors associated with risk behaviours among Chinese female sex workers (FSW) in Hong Kong. Unlinked anonymous HIV antibody testing and interviews, using structured questionnaires, were conducted for 293 FSW. None was tested HIV positive. In the last 6 months, 13.7% self-reported having contracted STD, 50.7% were not using condoms with their male clients consistently; 73.3% and 22.6% respectively had had unprotected sex with boyfriends and one-night-stand partners. Believing that condom use with a boyfriend is a mistrust and the perception that one did not have full control over condom use decisions, would agree not to use condoms if being paid more, and could not refuse to have unprotected sex with clients were significantly associated with condom use with various types of sex partners (OR =1.95 to 4.83). FSW has low HIV prevalence but high prevalence of risk behaviours. Bridging effects exist. Empowerment of FSW is warranted.

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Dr. W.L. Lim of the Virus Unit, Department of Health, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, for the help in performing laboratory testing for HIV for the participants. Thanks are also extended to all participants of the study. The study was sponsored by the Hong Kong Council for the AIDS Trust Fund.