HIV and STI Prevalence Among Sex Workers in Chiangmai, Thailand
Author Information
Author(s): Hongjaisee Sayamon, Khamduang Woottichai, Kham-Kjing Nang, Ngo-Giang-Huong Nicole, Tangmunkongvorakul Arunrat
Primary Institution: Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiangmai, Thailand
Hypothesis
What is the seroprevalence of HIV, syphilis, HBV, and HCV among sex workers in Chiangmai, Thailand during the easing of COVID-19 lockdown measures?
Conclusion
The study found high seroprevalence rates of HIV, syphilis, HBV, and HCV among sex workers, indicating ongoing risks despite the easing of lockdown measures.
Supporting Evidence
- Male sex workers had a higher seroprevalence of HIV (13% vs. 4.8%) and syphilis (23.9% vs. 6.4%).
- High proportions of participants were unaware of their HIV/STI infection.
- Receptive anal sex was associated with higher HIV and syphilis positivity.
- Drug injection history was linked to higher HCV positivity.
Takeaway
This study shows that many sex workers in Chiangmai, Thailand, have HIV and other infections, even after COVID-19 restrictions were lifted.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study with interviews and blood tests for HIV, syphilis, HBV, and HCV conducted among sex workers in Chiangmai from March to December 2022.
Potential Biases
Self-reported measures may be influenced by social desirability bias.
Limitations
The study faced challenges in participant recruitment due to venue closures and relied on self-reported data, which may introduce bias.
Participant Demographics
52.3% male, median age 31 years, mostly Thai (73.5%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.019 for HIV, <0.001 for syphilis
Confidence Interval
95% CI for HIV: 6.2–13.2, for syphilis: 11.6–20.4
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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