Knowledge of HIV/sexually transmitted infections, sexual behavior and HIV sero-prevalence of brothel-based female sex workers in Abakaliki, southeast Nigeria

Abstract

Setting: Brothel based female sex workers in Abakaliki metropolis, Ebonyi State. Objective: To determine the HIV prevalence, knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)/HIV, and sexual behavior of brothel-based female sex workers (FSWs) Methods: Using a cross-sectional descriptive design, data was collected from a total population sample of 85 female sex workers in three brothels located in the town. HIV diagnosis was made using rapid test kits according to the national algorithm. Presumptive STIs diagnosis was made syndromically. Results: HIV prevalence among this group was 18.8% while 35.3% had symptoms of STIs. Misconceptions exist in the FSWs' knowledge of HIV transmission and STIs/HIV prevention methods as 20% believe that mosquito transmits HIV; 63.5% douche, 60% take antibiotics and 36.5% consume local gin ('Ogogoro') after sex while 15.3% take antibiotics before sex as means of preventing STI/HIV transmission; 8.2% felt no need for HIV screening since there is no cure for HIV/AIDS. Condom use by client was significantly related to FSW previous history of HIV testing. Conclusion: HIV prevalence among this high risk group is four times higher than the state average. Despite high knowledge of HIV/STIs, misconceptions exist concerning means of transmission and relevance of regular HIV testing.