Psychosexual and social-cognitive correlates of sexual risk behavior among male clients of female sex workers in Tijuana, Mexico

AIDS Care. 2010 Dec;22(12):1473-80. doi: 10.1080/09540121003758648.

Abstract

Male clients of female sex workers (FSWs) may act as a bridge to the general population contributing to the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the USA and Mexico. This study used cross-sectional data to identify psychosexual and social-cognitive factors associated with sexual risk behavior in a bi-national sample of 300 male clients of FSWs recruited in Tijuana, Mexico from June to October 2008. In a multiple regression analysis, the number of unprotected vaginal sex acts with FSWs was associated with higher sexual compulsivity scores, lower self-efficacy for condom use, greater use of illicit drugs, and more financial need. Behavioral interventions are urgently needed to assist clients of FSWs in reducing high-risk behaviors in an effort to prevent the spread of HIV/STIs in this high-risk population and their sexual partners.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / transmission*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mexico
  • Middle Aged
  • Regression Analysis
  • Risk-Taking*
  • Sex Work / psychology*
  • Sexual Behavior / psychology
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / transmission
  • Unsafe Sex / psychology*