HIV Prevalence among High-Risk Women in Rwanda
Author Information
Author(s): Sarah L. Braunstein, Chantal M. Ingabire, Eveline Geubbels, Joseph Vyankandondera, Marie-Michèle Umulisa, Elysée Gahiro, Mireille Uwineza, Coosje J. Tuijn, Denis Nash, Janneke H. H. M. van de Wijgert
Primary Institution: Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of HIV and associated risk factors among female sex workers and female VCT clients in Rwanda?
Conclusion
The study found a high prevalence of HIV among female sex workers and VCT clients in Kigali, which is significantly higher than the general population prevalence in Rwanda.
Supporting Evidence
- HIV prevalence was 24% among female sex workers and 12.8% among VCT clients.
- 35% of female sex workers and 25% of VCT clients had never been HIV tested.
- Condom use at last sex was higher among female sex workers (74%) than VCT clients (12%).
- Recent treatment for sexually transmitted infections was associated with recent HIV infection.
Takeaway
This study shows that many women who work as sex workers or go for HIV testing in Kigali have a high chance of being HIV positive, which means they need more help and support.
Methodology
A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 800 female sex workers and 1,250 female VCT clients, including interviews and testing for HIV-1/2, HSV-2, and pregnancy.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may introduce bias in risk behavior reporting.
Limitations
The study may not be representative of all female sex workers in Kigali due to recruitment methods and self-reported data.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 25 years; 92% of FSW and 45% of VCT clients reported using contraceptives.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 21.0–27.0 for FSW HIV prevalence
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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