Demography and Characteristics of Female Sex Workers in India
Author Information
Author(s): Dandona Rakhi, Dandona Lalit, Kumar G Anil, Gutierrez Juan Pablo, McPherson Sam, Samuels Fiona, Bertozzi Stefano M
Primary Institution: Health Studies Area, Centre for Human Development, Administrative Staff College of India, Hyderabad, India
Hypothesis
What are the demographic attributes and sex work characteristics of female sex workers in India?
Conclusion
Women facing illiteracy and lower social status are particularly vulnerable to HIV infection due to limited economic opportunities.
Supporting Evidence
- 75.4% of participants were street-based sex workers.
- 74.7% of female sex workers were illiterate.
- 30.7% of participants were separated or divorced.
Takeaway
This study looked at women who sell sex in India and found that many are young, poor, and uneducated, making them at risk for HIV.
Methodology
Confidential interviews were conducted with 6648 female sex workers across 13 districts in Andhra Pradesh.
Potential Biases
Potential bias towards those better connected with their peers.
Limitations
The sample may not represent all female sex workers as participants were recruited through facilitators.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily young, with a significant proportion being illiterate and from scheduled castes.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% confidence interval: 4.08–4.34 years
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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