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Phillips TR, Fairley CK, Maddaford K, McNulty A, Donovan B, Guy R, McIver R, Wigan R, Varma R, Ong JJ, Callander D, Skelsey G, Pony M, O'Hara D, Bilardi JE, Chow EP. Understanding Risk Factors for Oropharyngeal Gonorrhea Among Sex Workers Attending Sexual Health Clinics in 2 Australian Cities: Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2024; 10:e46845. [PMID: 38767954 PMCID: PMC11148521 DOI: 10.2196/46845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk factors for oropharyngeal gonorrhea have not been examined in sex workers despite the increasing prevalence of gonorrhea infection. OBJECTIVE This study aims to determine the risk factors for oropharyngeal gonorrhea in female and gender-diverse sex workers (including cisgender and transgender women, nonbinary and gender fluid sex workers, and those with a different identity) and examine kissing, oral sex, and mouthwash practices with clients. METHODS This mixed methods case-control study was conducted from 2018 to 2020 at 2 sexual health clinics in Melbourne, Victoria, and Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. We recruited 83 sex workers diagnosed with oropharyngeal gonorrhea (cases) and 581 sex workers without (controls). Semistructured interviews with 19 sex workers from Melbourne were conducted. RESULTS In the case-control study, the median age of 664 sex workers was 30 (IQR 25-36) years. Almost 30% of sex workers (192/664, 28.9%) reported performing condomless fellatio on clients. Performing condomless fellatio with clients was the only behavior associated with oropharyngeal gonorrhea (adjusted odds ratio 3.6, 95% CI 1.7-7.6; P=.001). Most participants (521/664, 78.5%) used mouthwash frequently. In the qualitative study, almost all sex workers reported kissing clients due to demand and generally reported following clients' lead with regard to kissing style and duration. However, they used condoms for fellatio because they considered it a risky practice for contracting sexually transmitted infections, unlike cunnilingus without a dental dam. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that condomless fellatio is a risk factor for oropharyngeal gonorrhea among sex workers despite most sex workers using condoms with their clients for fellatio. Novel interventions, particularly targeting the oropharynx, will be required for oropharyngeal gonorrhea prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany R Phillips
- Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Carlton, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Carlton, Australia
| | - Kate Maddaford
- Alfred Health, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Carlton, Australia
| | | | - Basil Donovan
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rebecca Guy
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Rebecca Wigan
- Alfred Health, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Carlton, Australia
| | - Rick Varma
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jason J Ong
- Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Carlton, Australia
| | - Denton Callander
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Operational Centre Geneva, Medecins Sans Frontiers, Mombasa, Kenya
- SexTech Lab, The New School, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Mish Pony
- Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association, Sydney, Australia
| | - Dylan O'Hara
- Vixen, Victoria's Peer Sex Worker Organisation, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jade E Bilardi
- Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Carlton, Australia
- Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eric Pf Chow
- Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Carlton, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Chow EPF, Fairley CK, Kong FYS. STI pathogens in the oropharynx: update on screening and treatment. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2024; 37:35-45. [PMID: 38112085 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The rise in antimicrobial resistance in several STI pathogens such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae has become a public health threat as only one first-line treatment remains. Reducing screening interval for gonorrhoea and chlamydia in high-prevalence populations has been proposed to address antimicrobial stewardship, but this remains controversial. This review aimed to revisit the epidemiology of infections at the oropharynx and review the current screening recommendations and treatment guidelines in different populations. RECENT FINDINGS Emerging evidence suggests that the oropharynx is the primary anatomical site for gonorrhoea transmission but maybe not for chlamydia transmission. Most international guidelines recommend 3-monthly oropharyngeal gonorrhoea and chlamydia screening for high-prevalence populations (e.g. men who have sex with men) but not low-prevalence populations (e.g. heterosexuals) given the clinical and public health benefits of screening in low-prevalence populations are still unclear. Doxycycline remains the first-line treatment for oropharyngeal chlamydia in most guidelines. However, some countries have moved from dual therapy (ceftriaxone and azithromycin) to monotherapy (ceftriaxone) for oropharyngeal gonorrhoea treatment to address antimicrobial stewardship. SUMMARY The transmission of gonorrhoea and chlamydia is still not fully understood. Further work will be required to evaluate the benefits and harms of reducing screening in high-prevalence populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric P F Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University
| | - Fabian Y S Kong
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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King AJ, Bilardi JE, Fairley CK, Maddaford K, Chow EPF, Phillips TR. Australian Sexual Health Service Users' Perspectives on Reducing the Oral Transmission of Bacterial STIs: A Qualitative Study. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023:1-12. [PMID: 38016028 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2278528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Growing rates of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) demand new approaches to STI prevention. Sexual practices involving saliva or direct contact with the mouth increase the risk of STI transmission, but community awareness remains largely unexplored in the literature. The Community Awareness and Surveillance of STI Transmission study sought to explore sexual health clinic attendees' awareness of oral STIs; experiences when seeking testing and treatment; and acceptable educational and clinical interventions. Twenty-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with a diverse group of Melbourne Sexual Health Center attendees'. Reflective thematic analysis was undertaken, revealing key themes across people of different genders, sexual identities, ages, and nationalities. All participants emphasized the importance of understanding how their sexual practices might put them at risk of an oral STI. They also sought care from specialist sexual health services with the expectation that health-care providers (HCPs) in these settings had more understanding of diverse sexual practices. Participants' decisions to protect themselves against oral STIs were primarily driven by the effect the decision had on pleasure and intimacy. Comfort during the health-care encounter and trust in HCPs facilitated better understanding of individual STI risk. Differences in awareness and risk reduction strategies were noted based on past experience with oral testing and STIs. These findings highlight the importance of HCPs and public health interventions providing solutions that recognize the central role of pleasure and intimacy in our sexual lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia J King
- Central Clinical School, Monash University
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
| | - Jade E Bilardi
- Central Clinical School, Monash University
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Central Clinical School, Monash University
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
| | - Kate Maddaford
- Central Clinical School, Monash University
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Central Clinical School, Monash University
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
| | - Tiffany R Phillips
- Central Clinical School, Monash University
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
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4
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Cotter J, McManus H, Vickers T, Lee C, Davies SC. Increasing prevalence of gonorrhoea and chlamydia among female sex workers in northern Sydney, 2005-2019. Int J STD AIDS 2023; 34:869-875. [PMID: 37350164 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231173024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent reports indicate increasing gonorrhoea and chlamydia among female sex workers (FSWs) in Australia, with decreasing condom use for oral sex. METHODS We determined trends in prevalence and positivity of gonorrhoea and chlamydia among FSWs attending our clinic from 2005 to 2019, by analysing data from medical and pathology records. We conducted a sensitivity analysis by using an alternative prevalence definition of first test result only per calendar year. RESULTS Prevalence of gonorrhoea (all sites: pharynx, genital, rectal) increased from 1/130 (0.8%) in 2005 to 14/166 (8.4%) in 2012, to 31/257 (12.1%) in 2019; rate ratio (RR) 1.19, 95%CI 1.14-1.24, ptrend < 0.001. There were rising trends for pharyngeal (RR 1.11, 95% CI 1.05-1.17, ptrend = 0.001) and genital gonorrhoea (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.08-1.26, ptrend < 0.001). Prevalence of chlamydia (all sites) increased from 4/130 (3.1%) in 2005 to 8/166 (4.8%) in 2012, to 20/257 (7.8%) in 2019; RR 1.05, 95%CI 1.01-1.09, ptrend = 0.006. This rise reflected predominately pharyngeal chlamydia (RR 1.16, 95%CI 1.04-1.29, ptrend = 0.004). Qualitatively similar trends with similar significant results, were seen for gonococcal and chlamydial infections in the sensitivity analyses, indicating robustness of results to potential changes in testing frequency. Gonorrhoea and chlamydia were significantly associated with FSWs born in China. Chlamydia was significantly associated with age group 18-25. In the 2015-2019 period, of 89 women with gonococcal infections, 56 (62.9%) were pharyngeal-only; of 93 with chlamydial infections, 32 (34.4%) were pharyngeal-only infections. CONCLUSIONS FSWs require screening for pharyngeal as well as genital infections. Enhanced and sustainable health promotion is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Cotter
- Northern Sydney Sexual Health Service, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - H McManus
- The Kirby Institute, University of NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - T Vickers
- The Kirby Institute, University of NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - C Lee
- Northern Sydney Sexual Health Service, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - S C Davies
- Northern Sydney Sexual Health Service, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
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5
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Charleson F, Tran J, Kolobaric A, Case R, Fairley CK, Hocking JS, Chow EP. A Systematic Review of Kissing as a Risk Factor for Oropharyngeal Gonorrhea or Chlamydia. Sex Transm Dis 2023; 50:395-401. [PMID: 36735907 PMCID: PMC10259206 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tongue kissing is a poorly studied risk factor for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We undertook the first systematic review to assess whether kissing is a risk factor for gonorrhea or chlamydia of the oropharynx. METHODS Online databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane) and reference lists were searched until September 30, 2022. The eligibility criteria for studies included: any peer-reviewed study design in the English language; gonorrhea or chlamydia diagnosed by nucleic acid amplification test, or an infection self-reported by a patient; tongue kissing or its equivalent measured as an exposure. Studies were appraised using a quality scoring tool and qualitatively synthesized. RESULTS Of 8248 studies screened, 6 were eligible for review. All were conducted among men who have sex with men in Australia, including 3 prospective cohort studies, 2 cross-sectional studies, and 1 age-matched case-control study. In summary, all 5 studies examining gonorrhea found an unadjusted association between kissing and oropharyngeal gonorrhea. Two cross-sectional studies found that tongue kissing was an independent risk factor for oropharyngeal gonorrhea after adjusting for other confounders, such as participant demographic characteristics and other sexual practices. In contrast, a single eligible prospective cohort study found no association between kissing and oropharyngeal chlamydia. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review summarized the existing evidence that suggests that tongue kissing may be a risk factor for oropharyngeal gonorrhea but not chlamydia. Reinforcing the message that oropharyngeal gonorrhea could be transmitted through kissing may inform the development of novel approaches to prevent and treat gonorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Finley Charleson
- From the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne
| | - Julien Tran
- From the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University
| | - Adam Kolobaric
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard Case
- From the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
| | - Christopher K. Fairley
- From the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University
| | - Jane S. Hocking
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne
| | - Eric P.F. Chow
- From the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University
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6
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Lew C, Fairley CK, Tran J, Phillips TR, Ong JJ, Aung ET, Maddaford K, Bradshaw CS, Chen MY, Chow EPF. Sexual activities and condom use among heterosexual men and women engaged in mixed-gender group sex events in Melbourne, Australia. Sex Health 2023; 20:49-56. [PMID: 36411061 DOI: 10.1071/sh22045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies investigate group sex among heterosexuals. The aim of this study was to provide an exploration of characteristics and practices among heterosexual men and women who engage in group sex. METHOD We conducted a cross-sectional survey between May 2019 and March 2020 among heterosexual men and women attending a sexual health clinic in Melbourne, Australia. Participants were asked whether they had participated in group sex (sex involving more than two participants) in the past 3months, the size of the most recent event, sexual activities in which they engaged, and condom use. RESULTS Of 3277 heterosexuals surveyed (1509 women and 1768 men), the mean age was 29.9years (s.d. 8.8) and more than half (56.0%, n =1834) were born outside Australia. One in 20 participants (5.4%) had engaged in group sex in the past 3months with the number of events ranging 1-10times. Kissing was the most common activity in group sex, and women were significantly more likely to kiss a same-sex partner than men. Overall, of 165 participants who engaged in vaginal sex, 57 (34.5%) reported always using condoms and changing condoms between consecutive partners. Of the 100 men and women who had condomless vaginal sex, 79 (79.0%) received or performed fellatio after condomless vaginal sex. CONCLUSION About two-thirds of heterosexuals who engaged in group sex neither used condoms nor changed condoms between partners in the most recent group sex event. Safe sex messages on changing condoms between partners and between sexual activities should be reinforced for sexually transmitted infections prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Lew
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Julien Tran
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Tiffany R Phillips
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Jason J Ong
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Ei T Aung
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Kate Maddaford
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Marcus Y Chen
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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7
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Chow EPF, Lew C, Tran J, Phillips TR, Maddaford K, Fairley CK. Understanding the duration of tongue kissing among female sex workers for potential oropharyngeal-oropharyngeal gonorrhoea transmission. Sex Transm Infect 2023; 99:75-76. [PMID: 35523574 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2022-055444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eric P F Chow
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia .,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chen Lew
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julien Tran
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tiffany R Phillips
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate Maddaford
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Mehmandoost S, Sharifi H, Shokoohi M, Khezri M, Mirzazadeh A, Shahesmaeili A, Gahlekhani N, Kamali K, Haghdoost AA, Karamouzian M. Sexualized Substance Use among Female Sex Workers in Iran: Findings from a Nationwide Survey. Subst Use Misuse 2022; 58:298-305. [PMID: 36576274 PMCID: PMC10881188 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2161824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background: Female sex workers (FSWs) are at higher risk of HIV due to high-risk sexual and drug use related behaviors. This study characterized sexualized substance use among FSWs in Iran. Methods: In 2015, 1,337 FSWs were recruited from centers for vulnerable women and through outreach efforts in 13 major cities in Iran. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews from consenting FSWs on a range of socio-demographic and behavioral characteristics. The primary outcome of interest was sexualized substance use, defined as reporting alcohol or drug use before or during sex in the past month. Bivariable and multivariable modified Poisson regression models were used to assess the correlates of sexualized substance use. Adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported. Results: The prevalence of sexualized substance use was 31.3% (95% CI: 28.7, 34.0). Inconsistent condom use during sex with clients in the past month (aPR = 1.31; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.71), regular (i.e., at least weekly in the past month) alcohol use (aPR = 2.87; 95% CI: 2.17, 3.80), regular opioid use (aPR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.45, 3.02), regular stimulant use (aPR = 2.68; 95% CI: 2.12, 3.39), and self-reported HIV negative status (aPR= 1.88; 95% CI: 1.14, 3.10) were significantly and positively associated with sexualized substance use. Conclusions: Sexualized substance use was associated with riskier sexual behavior and self-reported HIV sero-negativity. Harm reduction messaging to FSWs needs to go beyond focusing on sexual health promotion and further highlight the risks associated with sexualized substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Armita Shahesmaeili
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Gahlekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Kianoush Kamali
- Midlife Health Office, Department of Population Health, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Centre On Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
- Brown School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Shi L, Luo J, Chen Y, Chen L, Hu H, Qiu T, Liu X, Xu X, Chen Y, Zhang Z, Zhou Y, Lu J, Fu G. Prevalence of syphilis and chlamydia trachomatis infection among female sex workers in Jiangsu, China: Results from a multicenter cross-sectional and venue-based study. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1018724. [PMID: 36388309 PMCID: PMC9659951 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1018724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Female sex workers (FSWs) are considered highly vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but available data on the prevalence of STIs among FSWs in China is limited at a provincial level. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of STIs and risk factors among FSWs in Jiangsu, China. Methods We conducted a multicenter cross-sectional study in seven cities of Jiangsu to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with HIV and other STIs. Blood and urine were collected to test for HIV, syphilis, Hepatitis C (HCV), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infections. Results We enrolled 3,580 FSWs. The overall prevalence of bacterial STIs was 6.2% (5.4%-7.0%). The prevalence of HIV, syphilis infection, HCV, NG and CT were 0.1% (95%CI, 0.0-0.2), 1.8% (95%CI, 1.4-2.3), 0.3% (95%CI, 0.1-0.5), 0.3% (95%CI, 0.2-0.5) and 4.3% (95%CI, 3.6-5.0), respectively. Most FSWs (85.6%) reported consistent condom use with clients in the past month. Only 10.6% of FSWs reported group sex, and 68.3% self-reported HIV testing in the previous year. According to the multivariable model, having group sex in the past year (aOR, 2.521, 95%CI: 1.366-4.651) and HIV infection (aOR, 26.260, 95%CI: 2.432-283.563) were associated with a higher risk of syphilis infection. Migrants (aOR, 1.669, 95%CI: 1.163-2.395), having a history of STIs in the past year (aOR, 4.601, 95%CI: 1.003-21.118), and NG infection (aOR, 38.549, 95%CI: 11.214-132.514) were associated with a higher risk of CT infection. On the contrary, FSWs aged older than 25 were associated with lower risk of syphilis infection (25-34: aOR, 0.339, 95%CI: 0.151-0.763) and CT infection (25-34: aOR, 0.503, 95%CI: 0.316-0.802; ≥35: aOR, 0.578, 95%CI: 0.362-0.925). Conclusion This study's prevalence rates of syphilis and CT infections show the need to promote comprehensive STIs control and prevention strategies, including behavioral intervention and STIs screening, especially in younger high-risk populations. With the increasing coverage of HIV testing, integrating other STIs screening with HIV testing may be a reasonable way to implement comprehensive STIs control and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingen Shi
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Luo
- Department of Clinical Central Laboratory, Jiangsu Health Vocational College, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuheng Chen
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Liping Chen
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Haiyang Hu
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Tao Qiu
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoqin Xu
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Yunting Chen
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhi Zhang
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Lu
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Gengfeng Fu
- Institute for STIs and HIV Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China,*Correspondence: Gengfeng Fu
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Engel JL, Fairley CK, Greaves KE, Vodstrcil LA, Ong JJ, Bradshaw CS, Chen MY, Phillips TR, Chow EPF. Patterns of Sexual Practices, Sexually Transmitted Infections and Other Genital Infections in Women Who Have Sex with Women Only (WSWO), Women Who Have Sex with Men Only (WSMO) and Women Who Have Sex with Men and Women (WSMW): Findings from a Sexual Health Clinic in Melbourne, Australia, 2011-2019. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:2651-2665. [PMID: 35776396 PMCID: PMC9293838 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02311-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite rises in sexually transmitted infection (STI) notifications among Australian women in the last decade, limited STI surveillance data exist specifically for women who have sex with women. This study aimed to compare differences in sexual practices and positivity for STIs and other genital infections among women who have sex with men only (WSMO), women who have sex with women only (WSWO), and women who have sex with men and women (WSMW), and whether these changed over time. In this retrospective repeated cross-sectional study, women attending the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre for the first time between 2011 and 2019 were categorized as "WSMW," "WSWO," or "WSMO" according to self-reported sexual practices in the previous 12 months. Demographic information, sexual practices, and positivity for STIs and other genital infections were compared between the three groups and over time. A total of 36,147 women (2618 WSMW, 534 WSWO, and 32,995 WSMO) were included. WSMW reported more sexual partners (median = 6; IQR = 4-10) than WSMO (median = 3; IQR = 2-5) and WSWO (median = 2; IQR = 1-4) (p < .001). A higher proportion of WSMW always used condoms with casual male partners compared to WSMO (20.4% vs 15.9%; p < .001). The proportion of women who always used condoms with casual male partners decreased over time in WSMO, (19.9% in 2011 to 15.2% in 2019, ptrend < .001) but not in WSMW. Bacterial vaginosis was more common in WSWO (14.8%) than in WSMW (11.8%) and WSMO (7.7%) (p < .001). Chlamydia was more common in WSMO (9.3%) than in WSMW (6.6%) and WSWO (1.2%) (p < .001). Syphilis was more common in WSMO (1.0%) than in WSMW (0.3%) and WSWO (0.0%) (p = .004). Over time, chlamydia positivity in WSWO increased (from 0.0% to 2.7%, ptrend = .014), and syphilis positivity in WSMW increased (from 0.0% to 0.7%, ptrend = .028); however, positivity of these STIs did not change in other groups. Sexual practices and positivity for STIs and other genital infections differed according to the sex of women's partners in the previous 12 months. Knowledge of these differences is important to account for future changes in STI trends that may occur in these subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaimie L Engel
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kate E Greaves
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lenka A Vodstrcil
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jason J Ong
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Marcus Y Chen
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tiffany R Phillips
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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11
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Lew C, Fairley CK, Tran J, Phillips TR, Aung ET, Maddaford K, Chen MY, Bradshaw CS, Chow EPF. Sexual Activities and Changes in Condom Use in Group Sex Events Among Female Sex Workers in Melbourne, Australia. Front Public Health 2022; 10:834901. [PMID: 35462808 PMCID: PMC9019149 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.834901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There are few studies investigating group sex among female sex workers (FSWs). This study aimed to examine the typical number of group sex participants, sexual activities and condom use in group sex among FSWs attending a sexual health clinic in Melbourne, Australia. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey between May 1, 2019 and March 13, 2020 among FSWs in Melbourne. Participants were asked whether they had participated in group sex (sex involving more than two participants) within the past 3 months, the size of the most recent group sex event, sexual activities they engaged in and condom use. It is unknown whether this was a paid or unpaid event in our study. Results Of the 247 FSWs surveyed, the mean age was 28.9 years and 51.8% were born in Australia. More than a quarter (27.5%, n = 68) had had group sex in the past 3 months with the number of events ranging from 1 to 10 times. The median size of the group was 3 participants with one man and two women (including the FSW) being the most common combination. Kissing was the most common activity in group sex. Of 58 FSWs who had vaginal sex during group sex, 77.3% (51/58) reported their male partners always used condoms but 13.7% (7/51) of these did not change condoms between women. Conclusion This study finds that group sex is common among FSWs. Although condoms are always used during group sex, one in six men did not change their condoms between partners, which may increase STI transmission between partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Lew
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Julien Tran
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tiffany R Phillips
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ei T Aung
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kate Maddaford
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Marcus Y Chen
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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12
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Lee C, McManus H, Foster R, Davies SC. A survey of condom use among female sex workers in Northern Sydney; declining condom use for fellatio. Int J STD AIDS 2021; 32:1326-1337. [PMID: 34525849 DOI: 10.1177/09564624211040951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Condom use among female sex workers (FSWs) is dynamic. We conducted a survey, by anonymous questionnaire, of condom use among FSWs routinely attending our clinical service in Northern Sydney. Logistic regression models determined associations with inconsistent condom use. All 201 women approached completed a questionnaire. Chinese-born women comprised 67% of participants. The median age was 35 years. Clients requesting unprotected fellatio was reported by 95% of participants, and approximately two-thirds felt pressure to have unprotected fellatio and vaginal sex (VSI). Inconsistent condom use at work was reported by 74% for fellatio and by 24% for VSI. The strongest adjusted association with inconsistent condom use for fellatio was monetary inducement by clients (aOR = 40.7, 95% CI 4.87-340, p = 0.001). The only other significant adjusted association was age ≥ 30 years (p = 0.02). The strongest adjusted association with inconsistent condom use for VSI was also monetary inducement by clients (aOR = 56.1, 95% CI 9.26-340, p < 0.001). Other significant adjusted associations were Chinese-speaking participants (p = 0.03) and clients requesting unprotected VSI (p = 0.02). We report high levels of inconsistent condom use. Health promotion should assist FSWs, particularly those of Chinese ethnicity, develop skills in dealing with pressure for unprotected sex, particularly fellatio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey Lee
- Northern Sydney Sexual Health Service, 3960Northern Sydney Local Heath District, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Hamish McManus
- 2786The Kirby Institute, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rosalind Foster
- 2786The Kirby Institute, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Sexual Health Centre, 379373South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephen C Davies
- Northern Sydney Sexual Health Service, 3960Northern Sydney Local Heath District, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.,Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, 198092University of Sydney, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
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13
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Constantinou H, Fairley CK, Hocking JS, Bradshaw CS, Choi EPH, Maddaford K, Phillips TR, Chow EPF. Associations Between Methods of Meeting Sexual Partners and Sexual Practices Among Heterosexuals: Cross-sectional Study in Melbourne, Australia. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e26202. [PMID: 34283024 PMCID: PMC8335617 DOI: 10.2196/26202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The association between meeting partners on the web and sexual practices has been understudied in heterosexuals. Objective This study aims to examine the associations between the methods of meeting partners and sexual practices and HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in heterosexuals. Methods We conducted a survey among heterosexuals attending the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre in 2019. This survey asked about the methods through which the participants engaged in meeting their sexual partners, sexual practices, and intravenous drug use (IVDU) over the past 3 months. The participants’ HIV and STI (chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis) status was obtained from clinical testing. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between each method of meeting and the participants’ sexual practices, IVDU, and STI status. Results A total of 698 participants (325 men and 373 women) were included in the study. Most of the participants reported using only one method to meet partners (222/325, 68.3% men; 245/373, 65.7% women; P=.05). The men met partners most commonly at social venues (eg, bar, pub, or party; 126/325, 38.8%), whereas the women met partners most commonly through friends or family (178/373, 47.7%). Paying for sex was associated with men meeting partners at sex venues (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 145.34, 95% CI 26.13-808.51) and on the internet (AOR 10.00, 95% CI 3.61-27.55). There was no association between IVDU and methods of meeting. Social venues were associated with condomless vaginal sex among men (AOR 3.31, 95% CI 1.94-5.71) and women (AOR 2.58, 95% CI 1.61-4.13) and testing positive for STI among men (AOR 3.04, 95% CI 1.24-7.48) and women (AOR 3.75, 95% CI 1.58-8.89). Conclusions Heterosexuals who met partners at social venues had a more than threefold risk of testing positive for STIs, indicating that heterosexuals may benefit from health promotion campaigns that are delivered through a public setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Constantinou
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Australia
| | - Jane S Hocking
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Australia
| | - Edmond P H Choi
- School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Kate Maddaford
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Australia
| | - Tiffany R Phillips
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Australia
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Australia.,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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14
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Oropharyngeal gonorrhoea infections among heterosexual women and heterosexual men with urogenital gonorrhoea attending a sexual health clinic in Melbourne, Australia. Clin Microbiol Infect 2021; 27:1799-1804. [PMID: 33845205 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2021.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is limited evidence about the transmission and prevalence of oropharyngeal gonorrhoea in heterosexuals. From August 2017, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) began testing for oropharyngeal gonorrhoea among heterosexuals with untreated urogenital gonorrhoea. This study aims to determine the positivity of oropharyngeal gonorrhoea among heterosexuals diagnosed with urogenital gonorrhoea at MSHC between August 2017 and May 2020. METHODS We included individuals who had oropharyngeal gonorrhoea testing within 30 days of initial testing. We reported the number and proportion of oropharyngeal gonorrhoea positivity, stratified by gender and contact of gonorrhoea. The χ2 test was performed to compare the oropharyngeal gonorrhoea positivity between groups. RESULTS Of 617 individuals with untreated urogenital gonorrhoea, 424 (68.7%) were tested for oropharyngeal gonorrhoea. Oropharyngeal gonorrhoea positivity was 38.9% (95%CI 34.2-43.7%, 165/424), and was higher in women than in men (115/252, 45.6% versus 50/172, 29.1%, p = 0.001). Furthermore, oropharyngeal gonorrhoea positivity was higher among individuals who were contacts of gonorrhoea cases compared to those who were not (29/44, 65.9% versus 136/380, 35.8%, p < 0.001). There was also no significant difference between women who were sex workers and those who were not (30/78, 38.5% versus 85/174, 48.9%, p = 0.126). CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that oropharyngeal gonorrhoea infection is common among heterosexual women and heterosexual men with untreated urogenital gonorrhoea. Testing heterosexual women and heterosexual men for oropharyngeal gonorrhoea will identify a significant proportion with unrecognized oropharyngeal infections whose recommended treatment is different in some countries.
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15
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Chow EPF, Hocking JS, Bradshaw CS, Phillips TR, Tabesh M, Donovan B, Maddaford K, Chen MY, Fairley CK. Paying for Sex Among Males and Females: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Melbourne, Australia. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:195-199. [PMID: 33555761 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most research focuses on individual selling sex but very few on paying for sex. This study aimed to determine the proportion of males and females who paid for sex and associated factors. METHODS We conducted a short survey at the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre between March and April 2019, which included a question on whether they had paid for sex in the past 3 months. The proportion of individuals who had paid for sex was calculated by sex and sexual orientation. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were conducted to identify individual's factors (e.g., demographics, sexual orientation, and HIV/sexually transmitted infection [STI] positivity) associated with paying for sex in the past 3 months. RESULTS The proportion who reported paying for sex in the past 3 months was 12.2% (42/345) among heterosexual males, followed by 6.4% (23/357) among men who have sex with men (MSM) and 0.2% (1/430) among females. HIV status, preexposure prophylaxis use, and sexual orientation were not associated with paying for sex among MSM. No MSM living with HIV reported paying for sex in the past 3 months. There was a significant association between paying for sex and gonorrhea (odds ratio, 2.84; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-7.71; P = 0.041) but not HIV, syphilis, and chlamydia among MSM. HIV/STI was not associated with paying for sex among heterosexual males. CONCLUSIONS Paying for sex was more commonly reported among heterosexual males, followed by MSM. Females were very unlikely to pay for sex. There was a limited association between HIV/STI diagnosis and paying for sex among males.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jane S Hocking
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria
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16
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Turek EM, Fairley CK, Tabesh M, Phillips TR, Bradshaw CS, Rodriguez E, Chow EPF. HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections and Sexual Practices Among Male Sex Workers Attending a Sexual Health Clinic in Melbourne, Australia: 2010 to 2018. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:103-108. [PMID: 32890334 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are limited data on HIV/sexually transmitted infection (STI) positivity and sexual practices among male sex workers (MSWs) both globally and particularly in Australia. This study aimed to explore demographic characteristics, sexual practices, and HIV/STI positivity among MSWs attending a sexual health clinic in Melbourne. METHODS We analyzed computerized medical records of all first-visit consultations with men 18 years or older who self-identified as current sex workers and attended the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) between 2010 and 2018. Demographic data, sexual behavior data, and laboratory results for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea were collected as part of routine clinical care at Melbourne Sexual Health Centre. RESULTS Of the 190 MSWs included in the analysis, the median age was 28 years (interquartile range, 23-30 years), 30.4% (52/171) reported having condomless penile-anal sex with their clients, and 59.6% (102/171) reported having condomless penile-oral sex with their clients since their last STI screening. Most (85.6%) MSWs had noncommercial sex partners, including 56.5% with male partners only, 30.6% with female partners only, and 12.9% with both. Approximately half of MSWs used condoms consistently with noncommercial sex partners (regardless of partner gender). The positivity for incident HIV was 1.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.0%-5.0%), that for syphilis was 6.1% (95% CI, 2.6%-10.5%), that for chlamydia was 9.6% (95% CI, 5.6%-14.9%), and that for gonorrhea was 10.8% (95% CI, 4.4%-20.9%). Male sex workers who exclusively had sex with women had a lower any HIV/STI positivity (0%) compared with MSW who had sex with men (15.7%; P = 0.013). CONCLUSIONS Male sex workers fall into 2 groups: those who had male clients and/or noncommercial partners who have a relatively high HIV/STI positivity and those who only had female partners or clients whose HIV/STI positivity is low. Both have a high proportion of condomless sex with clients and noncommercial sex partners. Strategies to increase condom use during sex work are needed.
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17
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Phillips TR, Fairley CK, Bradshaw CS, Tabesh M, Maddaford K, Hocking JS, Chow EP. Associations between oral sex practices and frequent mouthwash use in heterosexuals: a cross-sectional survey in Melbourne, Australia. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e041782. [PMID: 33419912 PMCID: PMC7798804 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the frequency of mouthwash use and its association to oral sex practice in heterosexuals. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. SETTING Data obtained from a sexual health clinic in Victoria, Australia, between March 2019 and April 2019. PARTICIPANTS Heterosexual men and women attending the sexual health clinic answered a survey using computer-assisted self-interview. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were performed to examine the association between frequent mouthwash use (ie, daily or weekly mouthwash use) and oral sex practices (including tongue kissing, fellatio, cunnilingus and insertive rimming). RESULTS There were 681 heterosexuals included in the analysis: 315 (46.3%) men and 366 (53.7%) women. Of participants, 302 (44.3%) used mouthwash frequently, 173 (25.4%) used mouthwash infrequently and 206 (30.2%) never used mouthwash. There was no significant difference in the proportion of frequent mouthwash users between men and women (46.4% of men vs 42.6% of women; p=0.329). The proportion of frequent mouthwash users increased with increasing age groups (39.3% in ≤24 years, 45.2% in 25-34 years and 52.8% in ≥35 years or older; ptrend=0.039) with those aged ≥35 years having a 1.80 times (95% CI: 1.12 to 2.89) higher odds of being a frequent mouthwash user than those aged ≤24 years. There were no significant associations between frequent mouthwash users had sexually transmitted infection (STI) risk after adjusting for age and country of birth. CONCLUSION Older heterosexuals are more likely to use mouthwash. Given the high proportion and associations of mouthwash use in heterosexuals, future investigations related to oral STIs in this group should include mouthwash use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany R Phillips
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marjan Tabesh
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate Maddaford
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane S Hocking
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eric Pf Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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18
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Turek EM, Fairley CK, Tabesh M, Phillips TR, Chow EPF. Group sex events among female sex workers in Melbourne, Australia. Sex Health 2020; 17:534-537. [PMID: 33172563 DOI: 10.1071/sh20136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Group sex is associated with increased risk of HIV and sexually transmissible infections (STIs), but there is limited data on group sex among female sex workers (FSW). Understanding current group sex practices among FSW may assist with understanding and addressing the rise in STIs observed among Australian FSW in the 2010s. The aim of this study was to examine the proportion of FSWs who had engaged in group sex. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted among FSWs attending the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Australia, between March and April 2019. Females aged ≥18 years who self-reported as a sex worker were invited to participate in the survey asking whether they had had group sex in the past 3 months. Group sex was defined as sex that involved two or more sexual partners. RESULTS Of the 51 FSWs who completed the survey, the median age was 29 years (IQR 24-34). Almost half (49%; n = 25) reported having group sex in the past 3 months, with a median number of group sex events of two (IQR 1-4). Australian-born FSW were more likely to report group sex than overseas-born FSW (76% vs 42%; P = 0.02). Age, number of paid clients and injecting drug use were not associated with group sex. CONCLUSION The present study findings show that group sex is common among FSW and should be included in peer sexual health education and interventions among FSW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn M Turek
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, Vic. 3053, Australia; and Central Clinical School, Monash University, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, Vic. 3053, Australia; and Central Clinical School, Monash University, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia
| | - Marjan Tabesh
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, Vic. 3053, Australia; and Central Clinical School, Monash University, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia
| | - Tiffany R Phillips
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, Vic. 3053, Australia; and Central Clinical School, Monash University, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, Vic. 3053, Australia; and Central Clinical School, Monash University, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia; and Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, Vic. 3053, Australia
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19
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Phillips TR, Fairley C, Maddaford K, Trumpour S, Wigan R, Bradshaw C, Hocking JS, Chow EPF. Duration of gargling and rinsing among frequent mouthwash users: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e040754. [PMID: 32994261 PMCID: PMC7526318 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the rinsing and gargling mouthwash practices among frequent mouthwash users to determine if there are differences in use between gender, sexual orientation and sex work status. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Data obtained from patients attending a sexual health centre located in Melbourne, Australia. PARTICIPANTS 200 frequent mouthwash users (four or more times per week), 50 for each of the following patient groups: men who have sex with men (MSM), female sex workers (FSW), females who are not sex workers and men who have sex with women only (MSW). Participants were observed and audio recorded using mouthwash. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Descriptive analyses were conducted to calculate the median age, time rinsing and gargling, amount of mouthwash used and proportion of participants who rinsed, gargled or both, as determined from the audio files. Kruskal-Wallis H test and χ2 test were used to examine differences between the patient groups. RESULTS Median age was 28 years (IQR: 24-33). During the study, most (n=127; 63.5%) rinsed and gargled, but 70 (35.0%) rinsed only and three (1.5%) gargled only. Median time rinsing was 13.5 s (IQR: 8.5-22.0 s), gargling was 4.0 s (IQR: 2.5-6.0 s) and the median total duration was 17.0 s (IQR: 11.5-25.8 s). Median duration of mouthwash did not differ significantly between the groups (females not sex workers: 18.8 s (IQR: 12.5-24.5 s); FSW: 14.0 s (9.0-22.0 s); MSM: 22.3 s (13.0-26.5 s); MSW: 15.8 s (12.0-25.0 s); p=0.070) but males used mouthwash longer than females (median 20.3 s compared with 15.5 s; p=0.034). The median volume of mouthwash used was 20 mL (IQR: 15-27 mL). And most (n=198; 99.0%) did not dilute mouthwash with water. CONCLUSION Over a quarter of frequent users do not gargle mouthwash at all (35%) and used it for a substantially shorter period of time than it was used in the randomised trial (1 min) where it was shown to be effective at inhibiting Neisseria gonorrhoeae growth. Our findings suggest that many frequent mouthwash users do not follow the manufacturer instructions for using mouthwash and may not use mouthwash in a way that was shown to reduce the growth of oropharyngeal gonorrhoea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany Renee Phillips
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christopher Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate Maddaford
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sabrina Trumpour
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca Wigan
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catriona Bradshaw
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane S Hocking
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
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Chow EPF, Fairley CK. Oro-anal sexual practice among female sex workers in Melbourne: implication for extragenital gonorrhoea and chlamydia transmission. Sex Health 2020; 17:296-298. [PMID: 32564778 DOI: 10.1071/sh19219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background The prevalence of sexually transmissible infections has been low among female sex workers (FSWs) in Melbourne, Australia. However, the prevalence of gonorrhoea and chlamydia, especially at extragenital sites, has increased since the mid-2010s. Oro-anal sex (i.e. rimming) has been identified as a risk factor for extragenital gonorrhoea and chlamydia. However, rimming has rarely been studied among the FSW population. The aim of this study was to examine the proportion of FSWs who had had rimming with their male clients. METHODS A cross-sectional survey among FSWs attending the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre in Australia in March 2018 was conducted. All females aged ≥18 years and self-reported as a sex worker were eligible. The survey included questions related to the number of insertive and receptive rimming partners with their male clients in an average working week. RESULTS Forty-five FSWs completed the survey; five (11.1%; 95% CI: 3.7-24.1%) FSWs had had insertive rimming and 19 (42.2%; 95% CI: 27.7-57.8%) had had receptive rimming with their male clients in an average working week. The median number of insertive rimming partners was two (interquartile range (IQR) 1-5) and the median number of receptive rimming partners was one (IQR 1-3). CONCLUSION Insertive rimming is more commonly practiced than receptive rimming among FSWs with their male clients in an average working week.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric P F Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, Vic. 3053, Australia; and Central Clinical School, Monash University, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia; and Corresponding author.
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, Vic. 3053, Australia; and Central Clinical School, Monash University, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia
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Turek EM, Fairley CK, Bradshaw CS, Chen MY, Vodstrcil LA, Snow A, Fortune R, Chow EPF. Are genital examinations necessary for STI screening for female sex workers? An audit of decriminalized and regulated sex workers in Melbourne, Australia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231547. [PMID: 32298328 PMCID: PMC7161967 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Victorian legislation prohibits sex workers from working when they have visible anogenital herpes or warts. The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of asymptomatic female sex workers (FSW) diagnosed with anogenital herpes or warts by genital examination. METHODS We analysed all computerised medical records of consultations with FSW at the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) in 2018. All asymptomatic sex workers were offered screening sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and a genital examination to identify visible anogenital herpes or warts at MSHC. FSW consultations were categorised into either 'asymptomatic' or 'symptomatic' based on the presence of symptoms reported by the FSW to the triage nurse. The proportion of asymptomatic FSW diagnosed with visible anogenital herpes or warts during a routine screening examination was calculated. RESULTS In 2018, 4055 consultations were provided to 1979 FSW. 3406 of these consultations were asymptomatic and all were examined by an experienced clinician for signs of STIs. Of these 3406 asymptomatic consultations, seven FSW (0.21%, 95% CI: 0.08% to 0.42%) were diagnosed with visible anogenital herpes and/or warts following a genital examination. Four were diagnosed with warts (0.12%, 95% CI: 0.03% to 0.30%), two with herpes (0.06%, 95% CI: 0.01% to 0.21%) and one with both herpes and warts (0.03%, 95% CI: 0.001% to 0.16%). CONCLUSION Based on these data, approximately 500 asymptomatic FSW would need to be examined to identify one case of anogenital herpes or warts. Genital examinations consume considerable clinical resources, increase the duration of consultations and provide essentially no significant benefit to the mandated testing for gonorrhoea, chlamydia, HIV and syphilis. Our clinic will use self-collected samples and no longer examine FSW who are asymptomatic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn M. Turek
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail: (EMT); (RPFC)
| | - Christopher K. Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catriona S. Bradshaw
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marcus Y. Chen
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lenka A. Vodstrcil
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony Snow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ria Fortune
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eric P. F. Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- * E-mail: (EMT); (RPFC)
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