PMID: 16619867Apr 20, 2006Paper

Inconsistent condom use among sexual workers in Ecuador: results from a behavior survey

Salud pública de México
Juan Pablo GutiérrezStefano M Bertozzi

Abstract

Whilst existing data suggests that the HIV epidemic in Ecuador is concentrated amongst men who have sex with men (MSM), there is very little available information on the situation of key populations, i.e. those most at risk of HIV infection and/or transmitting the infection. In particular, there is very little known about sex workers (SWs), their rate of condom use and other behaviors and characteristics with respect to the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study presents findings from a survey carried out with SWs in eight cities in Ecuador. Using a cross-sectional design, a questionnaire focusing on behaviours, attitudes and socio-economic and demographic characteristics was administered to SWs in eight cities in Ecuador. These eight cities together account for the majority of the population in the country, and they were also identified as the locations with high reported levels of HIV. Information from a total of 2867 SWs was obtained, the majority were captured in their workplaces. Most of SWs interviewed carry out their activities in closed settings dedicated to sex work (i.e. not in the street). The average age of respondents was 28 (95%CI 27-29), and around half of them live with a male partn...Continue Reading

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