HIV-related behavioral risk factors among older female sex workers in Guangxi, China

Abstract

Previous literature suggests a high rate of HIV infections among older female sex workers (FSWs) in China. However, limited data are available regarding HIV- related behavioral risk factors among this population. In the current study, we aim to examine the demographic and behavioral factors that place older FSWs at a high risk of HIV infection. We conducted secondary analysis of the 2010 National Sentinel Surveillance (NSS) data from Guangxi, China. A self-administered, standard behavioral surveillance survey was completed by a total of 12,622 FSWs in Guangxi, China. The Guangxi 2010 NSS sample included 19.4% FSWs aged 35 years or older (“older FSWs”). The overall HIV prevalence was 1.0% for the entire sample with 2.0% among older FSWs and 0.8% among younger ones. Older age was an independent predictor of unprotected sex, injection drug use, and a self-reported history of syphilis infection. Future HIV prevention interventions targeting FSWs should consider older FSWs' vulnerable status. Efforts are needed to address their financial needs and invest in skills for socio-economic empowerment.

Keywords:

• older FSWs
• National Sentinel Surveillance
• HIV risk
• condom use
• STD
• China

Acknowledgment

The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institute for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

Funding

The study described in this report was in part supported by NIH Research Grant [grant number R01AA018090] by the National Institute for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

Additional information

Funding

Funding: The study described in this report was in part supported by NIH Research Grant [grant number R01AA018090] by the National Institute for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.