Prevalence of and risk factors for sexually-transmitted infections in hidden female sex workers.
OBJECTIVE
We wanted to determine the age-specific prevalence of selected sexually transmitted infections while assessing the risk factors among hidden female sex workers (HFSW).


METHODS
One hundred HFSW over 15 years of age were recruited in an impoverished area of Antananarivo, Madagascar. After oral informed consent, blood and endocervical swabs were tested for specific antigens, antibodies, and pathogens using molecular, serologic, and microscopic examinations. A risk factor analysis was conducted with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals.


RESULTS
Thirty-two percent, 27, 12, and 7% of HFSW were infected respectively with Trichomonas vaginalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis. Specific antibodies against, syphilis were detected in 11%. None were HIV-positive. The main factors associated with STI were: young age, being married, lower education level, early age for first intercourse, and a history of genital infection.
Harijaona
V
V
Medical School of Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Ramambason
J D
JD
Morisset
R
R
Rasamindrakotroka
A
A
Ravaoarinoro
M
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002690:Chlamydia Infections / Q000453:epidemiology; D002692:Chlamydia trachomatis; D005260:Female; D006069:Gonorrhea / Q000453:epidemiology; D018023:HIV Seronegativity; D006801:Humans; D008270:Madagascar / Q000453:epidemiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D011204:Poverty Areas; D015995:Prevalence; D017584:Reproductive History; D012307:Risk Factors; D011477:Sex Work / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014247:Trichomonas Vaginitis / Q000453:epidemiology; D014505:Urban Population; D055815:Young Adult