HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis prevalence and coinfection among sex workers in Southern Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Sex workers (SWs) are vulnerable to HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis coinfection. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Tubarão, Laguna, and Imbituba, Southern Brazil. We surveyed 147 SWs using face-to-face interviews and blood sampling for serological evaluation. Results: Prevalence of hepatitis B (HBV) was 23.1%, syphilis 19.7%, hepatitis C (HCV) 8.8%, and HIV 8.8%. Of 13 HIV-infected patients, 3 were co-infected with HCV, 4 with syphilis, and 5 with HBV. Conclusions: SWs had high HIV infection rates, and coinfection with viral hepatitis and syphilis.