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Screening of Schistosomiasis, Strongyloidiasis and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Nigerian Female Sex Workers Living in Rome. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020274. [PMID: 36839546 PMCID: PMC9961054 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020274] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female Sex Workers (FSWs) are at high risk for acquisition and transmission of sexually transmission infections (STIs). Although several studies investigated the diffusion of STIs in this population, none of them investigated the occurrence of helminth infections in FSW coming from endemic regions. This study aims to assess the prevalence of STIs and helminth infections in a cohort of FSWs. METHOD authors conducted a prevalent, observational, and descriptive study on 97 Nigerian FSWs aged 17 to 52 years from January to December 2020. RESULTS a total of 97 FSWs were recruited. Of these, only 82 had completed screening for hepatitis B, C, syphilis, and HIV, while all 97 were screened for schistosomiasis and strongyloidiasis. The prevalence of STIs among FSWs in Rome was lower than in other European countries. The overall prevalence of HIV and HBsAg were 1.2%, (1/82) and 2.4% (2/82), respectively, while no case of hepatitis C and syphilis was found. Regarding parasitological screening, the overall prevalence of schistosoma species was 4.1% (4/97) while 5.15% (5/97) were positive for strongyloidiasis. CONCLUSIONS our study shows a low prevalence of STIs in Nigerian FSWs except for Hepatitis B and a higher prevalence of schistosomiasis and strongyloidiasis. The permanent monitoring of STI and parasitic infections in sex workers coming from Africa is strongly warranted, especially for hepatitis B, schistosomiasis and strongyloidiasis, to allow a timely diagnosis and treatment, and to plan preventive strategies.
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Garbett A, de Oliveira Tavares NC, Riggirozzi P, Neal S. The paradox of choice in the sexual and reproductive health and rights challenges of south-south migrant girls and women in Central America and Mexico: A scoping review of the literature. J Migr Health 2022; 7:100143. [PMID: 36568827 PMCID: PMC9768374 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmh.2022.100143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The last decade has seen high levels of displacement in Central America and Mexico, with women and girls representing a growing share of this flow. Women and girls face a unique set of sexual and reproductive health risks, both as a direct result of the migration process, and as a consequence of violence, conflict and oppressive gender norms in the region. This scoping review adopts a five-stage process to search for, identify, and review selected literature to answer two questions: (1) what sexual and reproductive health and rights risks, challenges, and needs do women and girls face before and during displacement; and (2) how do issues of sexual and reproductive health and rights influence women and girls' coping mechanisms and decisions in displacement in the region? Extracted data from intersecting literature on migration, gender, and health in the corridors of migration in Central America and Mexico are mapped and analyzed against a framework adapted from the Guttmacher-Lancet Commission on components of sexual and reproductive health and rights. Many Central American and Mexican women and girls flee conditions of gang-related conflict, gender-based violence, poverty, and other situations of extreme disadvantage. Findings from this study demonstrate they face further deprivation and suffering from the denial of health and rights throughout the migratory cycle. This review finds that migrant women and girls encounter considerable barriers to accessing services of sexual and reproductive health, are vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections, and face many violations of sexual and reproductive rights. Young migrants and sex workers, who are often connected with irregular migration in border areas, appear to be particularly vulnerable. Findings also reveal that the literature tends to focus on sexual health and rights, with a relative paucity of evidence on wider reproductive health issues. Of critical importance is how women and girls must constantly balance risk and opportunity in situations of constrained choice, and how their coping strategies and decisions define and influence their migration trajectories and broader wellbeing. This review identifies a gap in the literature around comprehensive studies that define sexual and reproductive health and rights beyond the confines of disease and sexual behavior, as well as a need for greater focus on under-represented migrant groups such as adolescent girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Garbett
- School of Economic, Social and Political Sciences, University of Southampton, Building 58, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Natalia Cintra de Oliveira Tavares
- School of Economic, Social and Political Sciences, University of Southampton, Building 58, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Pia Riggirozzi
- School of Economic, Social and Political Sciences, University of Southampton, Building 58, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Neal
- School of Economic, Social and Political Sciences, University of Southampton, Building 58, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
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Halkett A, O’Grady SM, Hinshaw SP. An Exploratory Investigation of Childhood Sexual Abuse and Other Theory-Driven Predictors of Sex Work Among Women with and without Childhood ADHD. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2022; 15:949-962. [PMID: 36439670 PMCID: PMC9684379 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-022-00467-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Limited research has identified prospective risk factors for young-adult sex work or examined overlapping predictors concurrently. We investigated childhood sexual abuse (CSA), along with other theory-driven predictors of sex work, among a well-characterized sample of girls with and without childhood diagnoses of attention/deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). METHODS Participants were a racially and socioeconomically diverse sample of 140 girls with rigorously diagnosed ADHD (47 Inattentive [ADHD-I], 93 Combined [ADHD-C]), and 88 age- and ethnicity-matched comparison girls, all followed longitudinally into adulthood. Self-report data on young-adult occupations revealed a subsample of 7 participants reporting engagement in "sex work" or "prostitution." Logistic regressions tested whether CSA, measured both dichotomously and by discrete age ranges, predicted later sex work, accounting for other risk factors. RESULTS A lifetime history of CSA was positively associated with sex work in initial analyses (β = 1.51, p = .045), but not after adjusting for additional risk factors. When examined by age ranges, only CSA occurring between ages 9-15 significantly predicted sex work (β = 2.84, p = .043), even after adjusting for additional risk factors. Childhood ADHD-C also emerged as a significant predictor (β = 4.94, p = .015). ADHD-related medication and years of education were protective factors only when CSA was considered dichotomously. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this exploratory study underscore the need for longitudinal research that (a) considers the developmental timing of CSA and (b) accounts for impulsivity and inattention as risk factors for sex work among young-adult women. Implications for clinical practice are briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Halkett
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way West, Berkeley, CA 94704 USA
| | - Sinclaire M. O’Grady
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way West, Berkeley, CA 94704 USA
| | - Stephen P. Hinshaw
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way West, Berkeley, CA 94704 USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
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4
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GLICK JL, RUSSO RG, HUANG AKH, JIVAPONG B, RAMASAMY V, ROSMAN LM, PELAEZ DL, SHERMAN SG. ART uptake and adherence among female sex workers (FSW) globally: A scoping review. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:254-284. [PMID: 33301704 PMCID: PMC8190161 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1858137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We conducted the first scoping literature review on ART uptake and adherence among Female Sex Workers (FSW), following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Sociological Abstracts. Eligibility criteria included: reporting an ART uptake or adherence result among FSW aged 18 or older; peer-reviewed; published in English between 1996 and 2018. Our search identified 6,735 studies; 30 met eligibility requirements. ART uptake ranges from 0 to 100% and adherence ranges from 50-90%, depending on measurement methods. Uptake and adherence influencing factors are mapped onto a social ecological model (SEM). Knowledge and beliefs, substance use, food insecurity and sex-work engagement were negatively associated, while older age, relationships and social support were positively associated with ART uptake and adherence. Standardised methods to measure uptake and adherence prevalence must be established for data comparison. Evidence regarding ART uptake and adherence barriers and facilitators span multiple SEM levels, although more research is needed regarding structural and occupational level influencers. Results suggest that the multi-level ART uptake and adherence barriers faced by FSW require complex multi-level evidence-based interventions. Study findings can inform ART interventions, future research, and offer guidance to other support services with FSW, such as PrEP interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. GLICK
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA,Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Rienna G. RUSSO
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Aimee Kao-Hsuan HUANG
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Belinda JIVAPONG
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | | | - Lori M. ROSMAN
- Welch Medical Library, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Danielle L PELAEZ
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Susan G. SHERMAN
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
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Mehendale S, Arumugam E, Aridoss S, David J, Jaganathasamy N, Balasubramanian G, Natesan M, Mathiyazhakan M, Padmapriya VM, Kumar P, Rajan S. Injecting drug use & HIV prevalence among female sex workers: Evidence from the National Integrated Biological & Behavioural Surveillance, India. Indian J Med Res 2022; 155:413-422. [DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_2932_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Park JN, Decker MR, Bass JK, Galai N, Tomko C, Jain KM, Footer KHA, Sherman SG. Cumulative Violence and PTSD Symptom Severity Among Urban Street-Based Female Sex Workers. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:10383-10404. [PMID: 31679445 PMCID: PMC7195245 DOI: 10.1177/0886260519884694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSW) are a marginalized and vulnerable population at high risk of gender-based violence within and outside of their occupation. However, FSW remain underrepresented in the trauma and mental health literature. The aims of this study were to (a) characterize exposure to violence among street-based FSW, including violence type, patterns over the life course, and key perpetrator groups, and (b) examine the multivariate associations between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity and two constructs (revictimization across life stages and cumulative violence). Data were drawn from the Sex Workers and Police Promoting Health in Risky Environments (SAPPHIRE) study, an observational community-based cohort of street-based FSW recruited through targeted sampling across Baltimore, Maryland (USA) in 2016 to 2017. PTSD symptom severity was measured using the PTSD Checklist for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition (PCL-5). At baseline, 61% of FSW screened positive for PTSD symptoms. The mean PCL-5 score was 38.6. We documented extensive histories of sexual and physical violence (lifetime: 81.8%; childhood and adult revictimization: 15.0% for sexual and 37.7% for physical). The vast majority of perpetrators were male and included paying clients, police officers, family members, and intimate partners. Exposure to childhood and adult sexual violence were independently associated with higher PTSD severity (p < .05), with marginal associations observed for physical violence. Data supported a cumulative violence model of PTSD severity (p < .05). Binge drinking also appeared to be a contributing factor (p < .05). The levels of PTSD observed among our sample were comparable with that reported among treatment-seeking war veterans. Our findings underscore the urgent need for tailored trauma-informed interventions and policies to address violence among urban street-based FSW, a population experiencing extremely high levels of violence, PTSD, and substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Nyeong Park
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michele R Decker
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Judith K Bass
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Noya Galai
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Catherine Tomko
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kriti M Jain
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Susan G Sherman
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Ahmadi S, Khezri M, Roshanfekr P, Karimi SE, Vameghi M, Ali D, Ahounbar E, Noroozi M, Shokoohi M. HIV testing and its associated factors among street-based female sex workers in Iran: results of a national rapid assessment and response survey. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT PREVENTION AND POLICY 2021; 16:43. [PMID: 34001164 PMCID: PMC8130331 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-021-00382-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Background Female sex workers (FSWs) are at a disproportionate risk of sexually transmitted infections and they may face significant barriers to HIV testing. This study aimed to examine HIV testing prevalence and its associated factors among street-based FSWs in Iran. Method A total of 898 FSWs were recruited from 414 venues across 19 major cities in Iran between October 2016 and March 2017. Eligible FSWs were women aged 18 years of age who had at least one commercial sexual intercourse in the previous year. HIV testing was defined as having tested for HIV in the lifetime. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to examine the correlates of HIV testing. We report adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI). Result Overall, 57.8% (95%CI: 20.0, 88.0) of participants reported having tested for HIV, and HIV prevalence among FSWs who tested for HIV was 10.3% (95%CI: 7.5, 13.0). The multivariable model showed that unstable housing (aOR: 8.86, 95%CI: 2.68, 29.32) and drug use (aOR: 3.47, 95%CI: 1.33, 9.06) were associated with increased likelihood of HIV testing. However, FSWs with a higher level of income were less likely to be tested for HIV (aOR: 0.09, 95%CI: 0.02, 0.43). Conclusion Almost one in ten street-based FSWs had never tested for HIV. These findings suggest the need for evidence-based strategies such as outreach support and HIV self-testing to improve HIV testing in this marginalized population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Ahmadi
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Sciences, Tehran, 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
| | - Payam Roshanfekr
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Salah Eddin Karimi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Meroe Vameghi
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Delaram Ali
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elahe Ahounbar
- Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Noroozi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, 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.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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McCann J, Crawford G, Hallett J. Sex Worker Health Outcomes in High-Income Countries of Varied Regulatory Environments: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18083956. [PMID: 33918688 PMCID: PMC8070506 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18083956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
There is significant debate regarding the regulation of the sex industry, with a complex range of cultural, political and social factors influencing regulatory models which vary considerably between and within countries. This systematic review examined the available evidence on the relationship between different approaches to sex industry regulation in high-income countries, and associated effects on sex worker health status. Objectives included identification of sex worker health outcomes, including sexual health, substance use and experience of stigma and violence. A search was performed electronically in eight scholarly databases which yielded 95 articles which met the criteria for inclusion. Findings suggested that sex workers in legalised and decriminalized countries demonstrated greater health outcomes, including awareness of health conditions and risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica McCann
- Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia; (G.C.); (J.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Gemma Crawford
- Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia; (G.C.); (J.H.)
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Jonathan Hallett
- Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia; (G.C.); (J.H.)
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
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Urada LA, Gaeta-Rivera A, Kim J, Gonzalez-Zuniga PE, Brouwer KC. Mujeres Unidas: Addressing Substance Use, Violence, and HIV Risk through Asset-Based Community Development for Women in the Sex Trade. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:3884. [PMID: 33917190 PMCID: PMC8068011 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18083884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
This paper examines the prevalence of and potential for community mobilization (CM) and its association with HIV/STI risk, substance use, and violence victimization among women, particularly those using substances, in the sex trade in Tijuana, Mexico. METHODS 195 women participated in Mujeres Unidas (K01DA036439 Urada) under a longitudinal survey study, "Proyecto Mapa de Salud" (R01DA028692, PI: Brouwer). Local health/social service providers (N = 16) were also interviewed. RESULTS 39% of women who participated in community mobilization activities used substances. In adjusted analyses (n = 135), participation in CM activities (n = 26) was more likely among women who did not report substance use (AOR: 4.36, CI: 1.11-17.16), perceived a right to a life free from violence (AOR: 9.28, CI: 2.03-59.26), talked/worked with peers in the sex trade to change a situation (AOR: 7.87, CI: 2.03-30.57), witnessed violence where they worked (AOR: 4.45, CI: 1.24-15.96), and accessed free condoms (AOR: 1.54, CI: 1.01-2.35). Forty-five of the women using substances demonstrated their potential for engaging in asset-based community development (ABCD) with service providers in Mujeres Unidas meetings. CONCLUSION Women using substances, vs. those who did not, demonstrated their potential to engage in ABCD strategies. Women's empowerment, safety, and health could be enhanced by communities engaging in ABCD strategies that build and bridge social capital for marginalized women who otherwise have few exit and recovery options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianne A. Urada
- College of Health and Human Services, San Diego State University School of Social Work, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Andrés Gaeta-Rivera
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autonoma de Chihuahua, Chihuahua 31125, Mexico;
| | - Jessica Kim
- Center for Justice and Reconciliation, Point Loma Nazarene d, San Diego, CA 92106, USA;
| | | | - Kimberly C. Brouwer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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Wang M, Lim SH, Gibson BA, Azwa I, Guadamuz TE, Altice FL, Kamarulzaman A, Wickersham JA. Correlates of newly diagnosed HIV infection among cisgender women sex workers and transgender women sex workers in Greater Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Int J STD AIDS 2021; 32:609-619. [PMID: 33752518 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420970417] [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: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Globally, cisgender women sex workers (CWSWs) and transgender women sex workers (TWSWs) experience increased vulnerabilities to HIV infection. Unfortunately, there is limited data on the drivers of HIV infection in these two understudied populations, particularly in Southeast Asia. To better understand factors associated with HIV infection, we evaluated correlates of newly diagnosed HIV infection in these two populations in Greater Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. A total of 469 women (CWSW: n = 283; TWSW: n = 186) were included in this study. Most participants who tested HIV+ were unaware of their infection (59.6%; n = 34/57). Separate binary and multivariable logistic regressions were conducted to identify correlates of newly diagnosed HIV in CWSWs and TWSWs. Among CWSWs, Chlamydia trachomatis (aOR = 5.66; p = 0.007) and lifetime use of ecstasy/MDMA (aOR = 5.34; p = 0.03) were associated with newly diagnosed HIV, while condomless vaginal sex with clients was associated with lower likelihood of HIV infection (aOR = 0.98; p = 0.01). Among TWSWs, being single (aOR = 6.76; p = 0.03), using mobile application to solicit clients (aOR = 25.33; p = 0.006), and having C. trachomatis infection (aOR = 88.22, p = 0.02) were associated with newly diagnosed HIV. Expansion of HIV/sexually transmitted infection screening is needed to increase detection of HIV and linkage to care for sex workers. Interventions to reduce HIV infection among CWSWs and TWSWs should be tailored to these populations' unique vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, 12228Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sin How Lim
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Britton A Gibson
- Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, 472529Quinnipiac University, North Haven, CT, USA
| | - Iskandar Azwa
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Faculty of Medicine, 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Thomas E Guadamuz
- Department of Society and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 26685Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Frederick L Altice
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, 12228Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Adeeba Kamarulzaman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, 12228Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jeffrey A Wickersham
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, 12228Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Patel R, Redmond NM, Kesten JM, Linton MJ, Horwood J, Wilcox D, Munafo J, Coast J, Macleod J, Jeal N. Drug Use in Street Sex worKers (DUSSK) study: results of a mixed methods feasibility study of a complex intervention to reduce illicit drug use in drug dependent female sex workers. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e036491. [PMID: 33323428 PMCID: PMC7745311 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-036491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The majority of female street-based sex workers (SSWs) are dependent on illicit drugs and sell sex to fund their drug use. They typically face multiple traumatic experiences, starting at a young age, which continue through sex work involvement. Their trauma-related symptoms tend to increase when drug use is reduced, hindering sustained reduction. Providing specialist trauma care to address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) alongside drug treatment may therefore improve treatment outcomes. Aims to (1) evaluate recruitment and retention of participants; (2) examine intervention experiences and acceptability; and (3) explore intervention costs using a mixed methods feasibility study. SETTING Female SSW charity premises in a large UK inner city. PARTICIPANTS Females aged 18 years or older, who have sold sex on the street and used heroin and/or crack cocaine at least once a week in the last calendar month. INTERVENTION Female SSW-only drug treatment groups in a female SSW-only setting delivered by female staff. Targeted PTSD screening then treatment of positive diagnoses with eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy by female staff from a specialist National Health Service trauma service. RESULTS (1) Of 125 contacts, 11 met inclusion criteria and provided informed consent, 4 reached the intervention final stage, (2) service providers said working in collaboration with other services was valuable, the intervention was worthwhile and had a positive influence on participants. Participants viewed recruitment as acceptable and experienced the intervention positively. The unsettled nature of participant's lives was a key attendance barrier. (3) The total cost of the intervention was £11 710, with staff costs dominating. CONCLUSIONS Recruitment and retention rates reflected study inclusion criteria targeting women with the most complex needs. Two participants received EMDR demonstrating that the three agencies working together was feasible. Staff heavy costs highlight the importance of supporting participant attendance to minimise per participant costs in a future trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Patel
- NIHR ARC West, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Niamh M Redmond
- NIHR ARC West, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Joanna M Kesten
- NIHR ARC West, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences & NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Evaluation of Interventions, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Myles-Jay Linton
- NIHR ARC West, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences & Health Economics Bristol, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jeremy Horwood
- NIHR ARC West, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences & Centre for Academic Primary Care, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - David Wilcox
- Acer Unit, Blackberry Hill Hospital, Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Jess Munafo
- Acer Unit, Blackberry Hill Hospital, Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Joanna Coast
- NIHR ARC West, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences & Health Economics Bristol, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - John Macleod
- NIHR ARC West, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences & Centre for Academic Primary Care, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Nicola Jeal
- NIHR ARC West, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Devon Sexual Health - North Devon, Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust, Barnstaple, UK
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12
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Jain JP, Abramovitz D, Strathdee SA, Gonzalez-Zuniga P, Rangel G, West BS, Pitpitan EV. Sex Work as a Mediator Between Female Gender and Incident HIV Infection Among People Who Inject Drugs in Tijuana, Mexico. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:2720-2731. [PMID: 32185596 PMCID: PMC7453791 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02828-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
We studied mechanisms driving gender differences in HIV incidence among 651 women and men who inject drugs (PWID) in Tijuana, Mexico, hypothesizing that sex work will mediate the association between female gender and HIV incidence. Of 43 HIV seroconversions occurring between 2011 and 2018, 8.8% were among females and 5.2% among males. HIV incidence density was significantly higher among females versus males (1.75 per 100 person years [PY], 95% CI 1.16-2.66, vs. 0.95 per 100 PY, 95% CI 0.62-1.47). Factors significantly associated with HIV seroconversion were: sex work (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 2.25, 95% CI 1.05-4.80); methamphetamine injection (aHR = 2.30, 95% CI 1.12-4.73); and methamphetamine and heroin co-injection in the past six months (aHR = 2.26, 95% CI 1.23-4.15). In mediation analyses, sex work mediated a substantial proportion (84.3%) of the association between female gender and HIV incidence. Interventions should target female PWID who engage in sex work to reduce gender-related disparities in HIV incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer P Jain
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, USA.
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Gudelia Rangel
- United States-Mexico Border Health Commission and El Colegio de la Frontera Norte, Tijuana, Mexico
- El Colegio de La Frontera Norte, Tijuana, Mexico
| | - Brooke S West
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, United States
| | - Eileen V Pitpitan
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, USA
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13
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Rouhani S, White RH, Park JN, Sherman SG. High willingness to use overdose prevention sites among female sex workers in Baltimore, Maryland. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 212:108042. [PMID: 32416474 PMCID: PMC9426862 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overdose Prevention Sites (OPS) operate worldwide as spaces where people can consume previously purchased drugs under supervision, and are linked to reductions in HIV/HCV transmission and fatal overdoses. As the United States weighs their merits and legality, research is needed to estimate acceptability and use among populations at high risk for overdose. We examine willingness to use OPS among street-based female sex workers (FSW) with prevalent drug use and associated morbidities. METHODS We describe self-reported willingness, barriers and conditions around use of a hypothetical OPS among 141 FSW engaged in active drug use in Baltimore City, and describe trends using Pearson's χ2 and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS Most women had history of overdose (55 %) and were likely to use OPS (77 %). Willingness was higher among women who: were sexual minorities (97 %;P=0.002),experienced homelessness (82 %;P=0.019), injected drugs (82 %;P=0.013), shared syringes (82 %;P=0.007), experienced sexual violence (92 %;P=0.045) or reported heroin use (83 %;P=0.039) in the past 3 months. Common anticipated barriers included transportation (45 %) and fear of arrest (41 %). CONCLUSIONS This study highlights a population of uniquely high-risk women who would benefit from an OPS integrated with other services. Conditions and barriers discussed are informative for planning and implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Rouhani
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States; Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States.
| | - Rebecca Hamilton White
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Susan G. Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
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14
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Allen ST, White RH, O’Rourke A, Ahmad NJ, Hazelett T, Kilkenny ME, Sherman SG. Correlates of Transactional Sex Among a Rural Population of People Who Inject Drugs. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:775-781. [PMID: 31407213 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02612-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, high rates of HIV infection among persons who engage in transactional sex are partially driven by substance use. Little is known about transactional sex among rural populations of people who inject drugs (PWID). Using data from a 2018 survey of 420 rural PWID in West Virginia, we used logistic regression to identify correlates of recent transactional sex (past 6 months). Most study participants were male (61.2%), white (83.6%), and reported having injected heroin (81.0%) in the past 6 months. Nearly one-fifth (18.3%) reported engaging in recent transactional sex. Independent correlates of transactional sex were: being female [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 3.90; 95% CI 2.12-7.16]; being a sexual minority (aOR 3.07; 95% CI 1.60-5.87); being single (aOR 3.22; 95% CI 1.73-6.01); receptive syringe sharing (aOR 3.13; 95% CI 1.73-5.66); and number of injections per day (aOR 1.08; 95% CI 1.01-1.15). Rural PWID who engage in transactional sex are characterized by multiple vulnerabilities that increase their HIV risk.
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15
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Drug use patterns and associated factors among female sex workers in Iran. Addict Behav 2019; 90:40-47. [PMID: 30355536 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines the prevalence of drug and poly-drug use and their associated factors among female sex workers (FSW) in Iran. METHODS We analyzed data from a bio-behavioral surveillance survey of 1347 FSW across 13 major cities in Iran in 2015. Two outcome measures were defined: i) past-month "any drug use", a binary variable defined as none or any; and ii) a three-category past-month "poly-drug use" variable defined as none, only one drug, and more than one drug. Correlates of these two study outcomes were assessed using multivariable logistic regression and multinomial logistic regression, respectively. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. RESULTS We found that 24.9% (95% CI: 16.1, 36.4) and 13.5% (95% CI: 8.1, 21.5) of FSW reported past-month any drug use and poly-drug use, respectively. Longer sex work career (AOR 2.44 [95% CI: 1.28, 4.63]), unstable housing (AOR 2.56 [1.17, 5.64]), past-year experience of sexual violence (AOR 1.61 [1.15, 2.27]), and incarceration (AOR 2.02 [1.23, 3.32]) were positively associated with any drug use. Similarly, FSW who were unstably housed (AOR 3.4 [1.06, 10.95]), reported past-year experience of sexual violence (AOR 2.06 [95% CI: 1.24, 3.41]) and incarceration (AOR 2.82 [1.60, 4.97]) were positively associated with past-month poly-drug use. CONCLUSION Drug use is frequent among Iranian FSW, particularly among those who experienced sexual violence, unstable housing or incarceration. Programs to reduce harms associated with drug and poly-drug use should target FSW as a priority population.
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Footer KHA, Lim S, Rael CT, Greene GJ, Carballa-Diéguez A, Giguere R, Martinez M, Bockting W, D'Aquila R, Sherman SG. Exploring new and existing PrEP modalities among female sex workers and women who inject drugs in a U.S. city. AIDS Care 2019; 31:1207-1213. [PMID: 30822101 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1587352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
To address a shortage in research on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) amongst women at high risk of HIV acquisition, this study explored the attitudes and preferences of female sex workers (FSW) (n = 15) and women who inject drugs (WWID) (n = 16) to existing (e.g., pill) and new (e.g., injection, implant) PrEP modalities, in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A. This study reports on seven focus groups conducted between December 2016 and April 2017 and aims to provide new insights into FSW and WWID attitudes and preferences towards three different PrEP delivery methods (i.e., PrEP pill, PrEP implant, PrEP injection). Results draw upon the PrEP care continuum framework and distill existing factors, including lack of control over side effects with new, longer lasting modalities, better privacy with injections, increased adherence with reduced dosing schedules from longer lasting PrEP and new factors such as perceptibility concerns with respect to the PrEP implant relevant to PrEP uptake and adherence among two important overlapping, at-risk populations. The study contributes to a better understanding of barriers and facilitators to uptake and adherence for FSW and WWID around both existing and new PrEP modalities, with implications for future clinical trials and PrEP interventions with at risk-populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sahnah Lim
- b Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Christine Tagliaferri Rael
- c HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University , New York , NY , USA
| | - George J Greene
- d Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Alex Carballa-Diéguez
- c HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University , New York , NY , USA
| | - Rebecca Giguere
- c HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University , New York , NY , USA
| | - Michelle Martinez
- e Program for the Study of LGBT Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute / Columbia Psychiatry with the Columbia University School of Nursing , New York , NY , USA.,f Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University , New York , NY , USA
| | - Walter Bockting
- e Program for the Study of LGBT Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute / Columbia Psychiatry with the Columbia University School of Nursing , New York , NY , USA
| | - Richard D'Aquila
- d Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- a Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health , Baltimore , MD , USA
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17
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Wirtz AL, Yeh PT, Flath NL, Beyrer C, Dolan K. HIV and Viral Hepatitis Among Imprisoned Key Populations. Epidemiol Rev 2018; 40:12-26. [PMID: 29688317 DOI: 10.1093/epirev/mxy003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Prisons and other closed facilities create opportunities for transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and viral hepatitis during detention and after release. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of peer-reviewed publications (2005-2015) to describe the prevalence of HIV, hepatitis C virus, and hepatitis B virus among key populations in prisons worldwide and to compare estimates of infection with those of other prison populations. Most data were reported for people who inject drugs (PWID; n = 72) and for men who have sex with men (MSM; n = 21); few data were reported on sex workers (SW; n = 6), or transgender women (n = 2). Publications were identified from 29 countries, predominantly middle- and high-income countries. Globally, PWID had 6 times the prevalence of HIV (pooled prevalence ratio (PPR) = 6.0, 95% CI: 3.8, 9.4), 8 times the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (PPR = 8.1, 95% CI: 6.4, 10.4), and 2 times the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (PPR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.5, 2.7) compared with noninjecting prisoner populations. Among these articles, only those from Iran, Scotland, Spain, and Italy included the availability of methadone therapy; 2 articles included information on access to needle exchange programs by PWID detainees. HIV prevalence was more than 2 times higher among SW (PPR = 2.6, 95% CI: 2.2, 3.1) and 5 times higher among MSM (PPR = 5.3, 95% CI: 3.5, 7.9) compared with other prisoners. None of these articles reported HIV prevention coverage among SW or transgender women; 1 described HIV and sexually transmitted infection screening for MSM in prison. Prevention programs specific to key populations are important, particularly for populations that are criminalized and/or may cycle in and out of prison.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Wirtz
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ping T Yeh
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Natalie L Flath
- Department of Health Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.,Baltimore City Health Department, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kate Dolan
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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18
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Jeal N, Patel R, Redmond NM, Kesten JM, Ramsden S, Macleod J, Coast J, Telfer M, Wilcox D, Nowland G, Horwood J. Drug use in street sex workers (DUSSK) study protocol: a feasibility and acceptability study of a complex intervention to reduce illicit drug use in drug-dependent female street sex workers. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e022728. [PMID: 30391916 PMCID: PMC6231566 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-022728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Poor health of sex workers continues to be a source of international concern. Sex work is frequently linked with problematic drug use and drug-dependent sex workers typically work on the street, experiencing the greatest risks to health compared with the general population. Street sex workers (SSWs) are much more likely to have experienced incidences of physical and sexual assault, increasing their risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We have developed a novel complex intervention designed to reduce illicit drug use in drug-dependent female SSWs which involves: female SSW drug treatment groups (provided by a specialist charity) in a female SSW setting (female sex worker charity premises) provided by female-only staff, PTSD care with eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy provided by female staff from National Health Service (NHS) mental health services. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A mixed methods study investigating the feasibility and acceptability of this intervention to inform the design of a future randomised controlled trial. The study aims to recruit up to 30 participants from November 2017 to March 2018 at a single site, with the intervention being delivered until December 2018. It will gather quantitative data using questionnaires and group attendance. Drug treatment group observations and in-depth interviews undertaken with up to 20 service users and 15 service providers to examine experiences and acceptability of the intervention. Study feasibility will be assessed by evaluating the recruitment and retention of participants to the intervention; the feasibility of NHS and third sector organisations working closely to coordinate care for a SSW population; the potential for specialist NHS mental health services to screen and provide EMDR therapy for drug-dependent SSWs and potential costs of implementing the intervention. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by South West-Frenchay Research Ethics Committee (REC reference: 17/SW/0033; IRAS ID: 220631) and the Health Research Authority (HRA). Findings will be disseminated through research conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Jeal
- University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust (UHBT), Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Rita Patel
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- The National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust (UHBT), Bristol, UK
| | - Niamh M Redmond
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- The National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust (UHBT), Bristol, UK
| | - Joanna M Kesten
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- The National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust (UHBT), Bristol, UK
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Evaluation of Interventions, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Sophie Ramsden
- University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust (UHBT), Bristol, UK
| | - John Macleod
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Joanna Coast
- The National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust (UHBT), Bristol, UK
- Health Economics at Bristol, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - David Wilcox
- Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Jeremy Horwood
- The National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust (UHBT), Bristol, UK
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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19
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Reynolds GL, Fisher DG. A latent class analysis of alcohol and drug use immediately before or during sex among women. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2018; 45:179-188. [PMID: 30359095 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2018.1528266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol and drug use by women is related to high-risk sexual practices and protective behaviors. OBJECTIVES To determine sexual risk and protective behaviors using information about women's drug use immediately before or during sex. METHODS Latent class analysis using PROC LCA in SAS software was used to determine classes of women using both past 30-day drug use and before or during sex. Participants were recruited from a community-based research site located in a low socio-economic area of Los Angeles County and completed the Risk Behavior Assessment, which elicits information on drug and sex risk behaviors. RESULTS The Risk Behavior Assessment and HIV and sexually transmitted infections testing was obtained on 812 women. Five distinct groups were identified by PROC LCA: An Abstinent group comprised of 26% of participants; an Alcohol and Marijuana group (16%); an Amphetamine group (11%); a No Sex-with-Alcohol group (37%); and a Poly Drug group (11%). Multinomial logistic regression revealed that sexual behaviors and condom use were different across the five groups: The Alcohol and Marijuana group had a higher odds of vaginal intercourse, while the No Sex-with-Alcohol group was most likely to use condoms for vaginal intercourse. The Poly Drug group had the highest risk for anal intercourse while the Amphetamine and Poly Drug groups had high proportions of women with injection-drug using and men-who-have-sex-with-men sexual partners. CONCLUSION Identifying women based on drug use immediately before or during sex can help providers understand prevention and risk-reduction practices and interventions for drug-using women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace L Reynolds
- a Department of Health Care Administration , California State University , Long Beach , CA , USA.,b Center for Behavioral Research and Services , California State University , Long Beach , CA , USA
| | - Dennis G Fisher
- b Center for Behavioral Research and Services , California State University , Long Beach , CA , USA.,c Psychology Department , California State University , Long Beach , CA , USA
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20
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Berger BO, Grosso A, Adams D, Ketende S, Sithole B, Mabuza XS, Mavimbela MJ, Baral S. The Prevalence and Correlates of Physical and Sexual Violence Affecting Female Sex Workers in Swaziland. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2018; 33:2745-2766. [PMID: 26872508 DOI: 10.1177/0886260516629385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSW) have a heightened vulnerability to violence and negative sexual/reproductive health outcomes. Limited research has examined how experiencing physical and sexual violence (PSV) mediates risk for poor health outcomes among FSW in Swaziland. The present analyses aim to contribute to literature linking violence with poor health outcomes, high-risk behaviors, and reduced health service-seeking among FSW. Data were analyzed from a cross-sectional study conducted in Swaziland between July and September 2011 with 325 adult women who reported exchanging sex for money, goods, or favors in the last 12 months, recruited through respondent-driven sampling (RDS). Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between PSV and ancillary violence/abuse exposures, risk behaviors, and sexual/reproductive and mental health outcomes. PSV was conceptualized as either ever having been beaten up as a result of selling sex or ever being forced to have sex since the age of 18, or both. Prevalence of PSV in this sample was 59.0% in crude estimation, and 48.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]:[39.2,57.6]) with RDS weighting. Separate RDS-weighted estimates of being beaten up as a result of sex work and ever being forced to have sex were 32.4% (95%CI=[24.4,40.4]) and 33.1% (95%CI =[25.0,41.2%]), respectively. Experiencing PSV was associated with being blackmailed (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]= 1.93, 95%CI= [1.07,3.52]), non-injection drug use in the last 12 months (aOR= 1.84, 95%CI= [1.02,3.33]), and feeling afraid to seek health services as a result of selling sex (aOR = 1.74, 95%CI= [1.01,2.99]). Given these findings, violence prevention strategies should be prioritized in programs that address Swazi FSW health, empowerment, and safety.
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21
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Jeal N, Macleod J, Salisbury C, Turner K. Identifying possible reasons why female street sex workers have poor drug treatment outcomes: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e013018. [PMID: 28336736 PMCID: PMC5372151 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-013018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS To explore street sex workers (SSWs) views and experiences of drug treatment, in order to understand why this population tend to experience poor drug treatment outcomes. DESIGN In-depth interviews. SETTING Bristol, UK. PARTICIPANTS 24 current and exited SSWs with current or previous experience of problematic use of heroin and/or crack cocaine. FINDINGS Participants described how feeling unable to discuss their sex work in drug treatment groups undermined their engagement in the treatment process. They outlined how disclosure of sex work resulted in stigma from male and female service users as well as adverse interactions with male service users. Participants highlighted that non-disclosure meant they could not discuss unresolved trauma issues which were common and which emerged or increased when they reduced their drug use. As trauma experiences had usually involved men as perpetrators participants said it was not appropriate to discuss them in mixed treatment groups. SSWs in recovery described how persistent trauma-related symptoms still affected their lives many years after stopping sex work and drug use. Participants suggested SSW-only services and female staff as essential to effective care and highlighted that recent service changes were resulting in loss of trusted staff and SSW-only treatment services. This was reported to be reducing the likelihood of SSWs engaging in drug services, with the resultant loss of continuity of care and reduced time with staff acting as barriers to an effective therapeutic relationship. CONCLUSIONS SSWs face many barriers to effective drug treatment. SSW-only treatment groups, continuity of care with treatment staff and contact with female staff, particularly individuals who have had similar lived experience, could improve the extent to which SSWs engage and benefit from drug treatment services. Service engagement and outcomes may also be improved by drug services that include identification and treatment of trauma-related symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki Jeal
- Centre for Academic Primary Care School of Social & Community Medicine Bristol, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - John Macleod
- Centre for Academic Primary Care School of Social & Community Medicine Bristol, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Chris Salisbury
- Centre for Academic Primary Care School of Social & Community Medicine Bristol, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- The National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West) University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Katrina Turner
- Centre for Academic Primary Care School of Social & Community Medicine Bristol, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- The National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West) University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
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Shrestha R, Copenhaver M. The Influence of Neurocognitive Impairment on HIV Risk Behaviors and Intervention Outcomes among High-Risk Substance Users: A Systematic Review. Front Public Health 2016; 4:16. [PMID: 26904535 PMCID: PMC4746254 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2016.00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurocognitive impairment (NCI) among high-risk substance users poses a substantial barrier to reducing risk behaviors in this population. Previous work suggests that NCI is intertwined in a close, reciprocal relationship with risk behaviors. Not only does substance use worsen cognitive impairment but cognitive impairment may also reduce the efficacy of interventions aimed at reducing risk and improving medication adherence. In this systematic review, we examine the potential impact of substance abuse and cognitive functioning in the context of HIV risk behaviors and risk-reduction intervention outcomes. The findings thus far suggest that, in order to be effective, risk-reduction interventions must take into account the impact of NCI on learning, memory, and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Shrestha
- Department of Community Medicine and Health Care, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA; Center for Health, Intervention, and Prevention, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Michael Copenhaver
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut , Storrs, CT , USA
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23
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West BS, Abramovitz D, Staines H, Vera A, Patterson TL, Strathdee SA. Predictors of Injection Cessation and Relapse among Female Sex Workers who Inject Drugs in Two Mexican-US Border Cities. J Urban Health 2016; 93:141-54. [PMID: 26696001 PMCID: PMC4794460 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-015-9995-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
We know little about predictors of injection drug cessation and relapse among female sex workers who inject drugs (FSW-PWID) at the US-Mexico border. Among HIV-negative FSW-PWID taking part in a behavioral intervention study in Tijuana and Ciudad Juárez, Cox regression was used to identify predictors of time to first cessation of injection, which was defined as reporting not having injected drugs for a period of 4 months or longer, and among that subset, we examined predictors of time to injection relapse. Among 440 women, 84 (19%) reported ceasing injection during follow-up (median time to cessation = 9.3 months); of these, 30 (35%) reported relapse to injection (median time to relapse = 3.5 months). The rate of injection cessation was lower for women reporting trading sex prior to age 18 (adj. hazard ratio (HR) = 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.41-1.01), ever being sexually abused (adj. HR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.27-0.71), and a higher number of vaginal sex acts with casual clients (adj. HR = 0.99 per transaction, 95% CI = 0.98-1.00). The rate of cessation was higher for women who spent more hours on the streets on a typical day (adj. HR = 1.04/h, 95% CI = 1.01-1.08) and who lived in Tijuana vs. Ciudad Juárez (adj. HR = 2.15, 95% CI = 1.14-4.07). The rate of relapse was higher among women reporting regular drug use with clients (adj. HR = 2.17, 95% CI = 0.96-4.89) and those scoring higher on a risk injection index (adj. HR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.15-3.61). The rate of relapse was lower for FSW-PWID with higher than average incomes (adj. HR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.18-0.89). These findings have important implications for the scale-up of methadone maintenance treatment programs (MMTPs) in Mexico and indicate a need for gender-specific programs that address sexual abuse experiences and economic vulnerabilities faced by FSW-PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke S West
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA.
| | - Daniela Abramovitz
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA
| | - Hugo Staines
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alicia Vera
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA
| | - Thomas L Patterson
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez, Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico
| | - Steffanie A Strathdee
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA
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Rogers MR, Lemstra ME, Moraros JS. Risk Indicators of Depressed Mood Among Sex-Trade Workers and Implications for HIV Risk Behaviour. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2015; 60:548-55. [PMID: 26720823 PMCID: PMC4679163 DOI: 10.1177/070674371506001205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2015] [Accepted: 03/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence of depressed mood among people who have traded sex for money in the Saskatoon Health Region (SHR), the adjusted risk factors for depressed mood among this sample, and if depressed mood was associated with decreased self-efficacy for safe sexual practices and injection drug use. METHODS Two-hundred ninety-nine people who have traded sex for money were surveyed with validated instruments for measuring risk behaviours, depressed mood, and self-efficacy for safe sexual practices. RESULTS The sample consisted primarily of low-income, poorly educated Aboriginal women, many of whom also indicated using injection drugs. Using the 16-point score cut-off for the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, 84.6% of participants had depressed mood. When the cut-off score was 23 points or higher, 65.9% had depressed mood. After multivariate analysis, covariates that had an independent association with depressed mood included injecting a drug in the past 4 weeks (OR 1.59; 95% CI 1.2 to 1.8), suffering the death or permanent separation from a parent before the age of 18 (OR 2.09; 95% CI 1.05 to 4.15), and physical assault or abuse by a partner in adult life (OR 2.79; 95% CI 1.38 to 5.64). Depressed mood was associated with lower self-efficacy scores for safe sexual behaviours. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that high rates of depressed mood among people who have traded sex for money is associated with injection drug use and low self-efficacy for safe sexual health practices. These findings are important and may help explain the high rates of human immunodeficiency virus within the SHR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marla Rochelle Rogers
- Research Study Coordinator, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
| | - Mark Edgar Lemstra
- Adjunct Professor, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
| | - John Simeon Moraros
- Assistant Professor, School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
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Gaines TL, Urada LA, Martinez G, Goldenberg SM, Rangel G, Reed E, Patterson TL, Strathdee SA. Short-term cessation of sex work and injection drug use: evidence from a recurrent event survival analysis. Addict Behav 2015; 45:63-9. [PMID: 25644589 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2015.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study quantitatively examined the prevalence and correlates of short-term sex work cessation among female sex workers who inject drugs (FSW-IDUs) and determined whether injection drug use was independently associated with cessation. METHODS We used data from FSW-IDUs (n=467) enrolled into an intervention designed to increase condom use and decrease sharing of injection equipment but was not designed to promote sex work cessation. We applied a survival analysis that accounted for quit-re-entry patterns of sex work over 1-year stratified by city, Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. RESULTS Overall, 55% of participants stopped sex work at least once during follow-up. Controlling for other characteristics and intervention assignment, injection drug use was inversely associated with short-term sex work cessation in both cities. In Ciudad Juarez, women receiving drug treatment during follow-up had a 2-fold increase in the hazard of stopping sex work. In both cities, income from sources other than sex work, police interactions and healthcare access were independently and significantly associated with shorter-term cessation. CONCLUSIONS Short-term sex work cessation was significantly affected by injection drug use. Expanded drug treatment and counseling coupled with supportive services such as relapse prevention, job training, and provision of alternate employment opportunities may promote longer-term cessation among women motivated to leave the sex industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommi L Gaines
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC0507, La Jolla, CA 92093-0507, USA.
| | - Lianne A Urada
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC0507, La Jolla, CA 92093-0507, USA
| | - Gustavo Martinez
- Federacion Mexicana de Asociaciones Privadas, Ave. Malecon e Ing. M Cardona, No. 788 Zona Centro, 32000 Cd., Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico
| | - Shira M Goldenberg
- BC Center for Excellence in HIV/AIDS and Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Elizabeth Reed
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC0507, La Jolla, CA 92093-0507, USA
| | - Thomas L Patterson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC0680, La Jolla, CA 92093-0680, USA
| | - Steffanie A Strathdee
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC0507, La Jolla, CA 92093-0507, USA
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Iversen J, Page K, Madden A, Maher L. HIV, HCV, and Health-Related Harms Among Women Who Inject Drugs: Implications for Prevention and Treatment. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 69 Suppl 2:S176-81. [PMID: 25978485 PMCID: PMC4505917 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although an estimated 3.5 million women inject drugs globally, women are outnumbered 4 to one by men who inject drugs and are often ignored or overlooked in the development and delivery of prevention and treatment services for this population. This study aimed to identify key comorbidities prevalent among women who inject drugs (WWID), consider factors that contribute to vulnerability of this population, and examine implications for prevention and treatment. METHODS The literature was reviewed to examine the specific challenges and needs of WWID. We searched health-related bibliographic databases and grey literature to identify studies conducted among WWID and studies conducted among people who inject drugs (PWID), where results were disaggregated by gender and policies/guidelines/reports relevant to WWID. RESULTS WWID face a range of unique, gender-specific, and often additional challenges and barriers. The lack of a targeted focus on WWID by prevention and treatment services and harm-reduction programs increases women's vulnerability to a range of health-related harms, including blood-borne viral and sexually transmitted infections, injection-related injuries, mental health issues, physical and sexual violence, poor sexual and reproductive health, issues in relation to childbearing and child care, and pervasive stigma and discrimination. CONCLUSIONS There is a need to improve the collection and reporting of gender-disaggregated data on prevalence of key infections and prevention and treatment service access and program coverage. Women-focussed services and integrating gender equity and human rights into the harm-reduction programming will be a prerequisite if improvements in the health, safety, and well-being of this often invisible and highly vulnerable population are to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kimberly Page
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Preventive Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, University of New Mexico, USA
| | - Annie Madden
- Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL)
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Azim T, Bontell I, Strathdee SA. Women, drugs and HIV. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2015; 26 Suppl 1:S16-21. [PMID: 25277726 PMCID: PMC4498573 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2014.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Revised: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who use drugs, irrespective of whether these are injected or not, are faced with multiple issues which enhance their vulnerability to HIV. METHODS In this commentary, we explore the HIV risks and vulnerabilities of women who use drugs as well as the interventions that have been shown to reduce their susceptibility to HIV infection. RESULTS Women who inject drugs are among the most vulnerable to HIV through both unsafe injections and unprotected sex. They are also among the most hidden affected populations, as they are more stigmatized than their male counterparts. Many sell sex to finance their own and their partner's drug habit and often their partner exerts a significant amount of control over their sex work, condom use and injection practices. Women who use drugs all over the world face many different barriers to HIV service access including police harassment, judgmental health personnel and a fear of losing their children. CONCLUSION In order to enable these women to access life-saving services including needle-syringe and condom programs, opioid substitution therapy and HIV testing and treatment, it is essential to create a conducive environment and provide tailor-made services that are adapted to their specific needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasnim Azim
- Centre for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
| | - Irene Bontell
- Centre for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh; Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, 141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Steffanie A Strathdee
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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DeHovitz J, Uuskula A, El-Bassel N. The HIV epidemic in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2015; 11:168-76. [PMID: 24652411 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-014-0202-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Eastern Europe and Central Asia represent one of the few regions globally where there is a continued increase in the incidence of HIV infection. For example, in Eastern Europe the rate of diagnosed cases of HIV infection per 100 000 population has increased from 11.7 in 2004 to 22.5 in 2011. Initially propelled by injection drug use, heterosexual transmission has now become a major driver of new infections in the region. Nonetheless substance use remains an important factor, with its control limited by challenges in scaling up harm reduction efforts. While most countries have implemented opioid substitution therapy programs, their scale remains very limited. Similarly, coverage of needles syringe programs across the region is variable. Complicating the control of HIV has been the emergence of non-injection drugs and inadequate access to antiretroviral therapy. In addition, structural barriers and stigma toward HIV infected people may contribute to the high proportion of late presentations for HIV care. Finally in the wake of the HIV epidemic, high rates of hepatitis C infection and tuberculosis have been noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack DeHovitz
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave., MSC 1240, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA,
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We reviewed the studies published in 2012-2013 that focused on re-emerging and emerging injection and noninjection drug use trends driving HIV risk behaviors and transmission in some parts of the world. RECENT FINDINGS Although HIV incidence has declined in many countries, HIV epidemics remain at troubling levels among key drug-using populations, including females who inject drugs (FWIDs), FWIDs who trade sex, sex partners of people who inject drugs, young people who inject drugs, and people who use noninjection drugs in a number of low-income and middle-income countries such as in Central Asia, Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. SUMMARY HIV epidemics occur within the contexts of global economic and political forces, including poverty, human rights violations, discrimination, drug policies, trafficking, and other multilevel risk environments. Trends of injection and noninjection drug use and risk environments driving HIV epidemics in Central Asia, Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa call for political will to improve HIV and substance use service delivery, access to combination HIV prevention, and harm reduction programs.
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Hiller SP, Syvertsen JL, Lozada R, Ojeda VD. Social support and recovery among Mexican female sex workers who inject drugs. J Subst Abuse Treat 2013; 45:44-54. [PMID: 23375570 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2012.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2012] [Revised: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
This qualitative study describes social support that female sex workers who inject drugs (FSW-IDUs) receive and recovery efforts in the context of relationships with family and intimate partners. We conducted thematic analysis of in-depth interviews with 47 FSW-IDUs enrolled in an intervention study to reduce injection/sexual risk behaviors in Tijuana, Mexico. FSW-IDUs received instrumental and emotional social support, which positively and negatively influenced recovery efforts. Participants reported how some intimate partners provided conflicting positive and negative support during recovery attempts. Problematic support (i.e., well-intended support with unintended consequences) occurred in strained family relationships, limiting the positive effects of support. Mexican drug treatment programs should consider addressing social support in recovery curricula through evidence-based interventions that engage intimate partners, children and family to better reflect socio-cultural and contextual determinants of substance abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah P Hiller
- Division of Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, Institute of the Americas, La Jolla, CA 92093-0507, USA
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