Age group differences in HIV risk and mental health problems among female sex workers in Southwest China

Abstract

HIV risk and mental health problems are prevalent among female sex workers (FSWs) in China. The purpose of this research was to study age group differences in HIV risk and mental health problems in this population. In the current study, we divided a sample of 1022 FSWs into three age groups (≤ 20 years, 21–34 years, and ≥ 35 years). Results showed that among the three groups (1) older FSWs (≥ 35 years) were likely to be socioeconomically disadvantaged (e.g., rural residency, little education, employment in low-paying venues, and low monthly income); (2) older FSWs reported the highest rates of inconsistent, ineffective condom use, and sexually transmitted diseases history; (3) younger FSWs (≤ 20 years) reported the highest level of depression, suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts, regular-partner violence, and substance use; (4) all health-related risks except casual-partner violence were more prevalent among older and younger FSWs than among FSWs aged 21–34 years; and (5) age had a significant effect on all health indicators except suicide attempts after controlling for several key demographic factors. These findings indicate the need for intervention efforts to address varying needs among FSWs in different age groups. Specific interventional efforts are needed to reduce older FSWs' exposure to HIV risk; meanwhile, more attention should be given to improve FSWs' mental health status, especially among younger FSWs.

Keywords:

• age differences
• HIV risk
• mental health problems
• female sex workers

Acknowledgments

We thank the on-site research team for conducting the survey and managers or gatekeepers for helping us to approach the female sex workers. We also thank female sex workers who participated in our survey.

Funding

This research was supported by the National Institute for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism [grant number R01AA018090].

Additional information

Funding

Funding: This research was supported by the National Institute for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism [grant number R01AA018090].