Prevalence of psychological problems and relationships with condom use and HIV prevention behaviors among Chinese female sex workers in Hong Kong

AIDS Care. 2010 Jun;22(6):659-68. doi: 10.1080/09540120903431314.

Abstract

The present study investigated the prevalence of psychological problems and their relationships with relevant HIV prevention behaviors among female sex workers (FSWs). An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted. With a mapping exercise, 293 Chinese FSWs were recruited from a red-light district in Hong Kong. Results showed high prevalence of psychological problems among FSWs: substance use (40.4%), probable depression (53.9%), self-harm tendencies (34-38%), poor self-esteem (48-52%), and pessimistic future outlook (46-47%). Inconsistent condom use was common (51% with clients, 23% with one-night-stand sex partner, and 73% with boyfriends). Over 70% had not used HIV-related prevention services in the last 6 months. Multivariate analyses indicated that psychological problems were significantly associated with inconsistent condom use and non-use of prevention services. The poor psychological well-beings of FSWs have important public health implications. Relevant professional services should be provided and integrated with HIV prevention efforts.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude to Health
  • Condoms / statistics & numerical data*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression / epidemiology
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • HIV Infections / psychology
  • Health Behavior*
  • Hong Kong / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Prevalence
  • Safe Sex / psychology*
  • Self Concept
  • Self-Injurious Behavior / epidemiology
  • Sex Work / psychology*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / epidemiology
  • Young Adult