Mental health and HIV-related high-risk behaviors among female sex workers

Abstract

Background: Psychological problems have significant associations with HIV-related high-risk behaviors among female sex workers (FSWs). Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between mental health and high-risk behaviors among FSWs in Shiraz, Iran. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted from October 2011 to May 2012, used a convenience sampling method to recruit 125 FSWs and 125 control women. After providing informed consent, each participant completed a validated questionnaire (SCL-90-R and high-risk behaviors). Results: In comparison to the control group, the mean age at first sexual relationship was lower among sex workers, and most of them (80.4%) had not used condoms in their most recent sexual intercourse. The mean scores on all subscales of the SCL-90-R were lower in the control group (P < 0.003), whereas psychological symptoms were significantly more prevalent among FSWs. A significant inverse relationship was found between global severity indexes (GSR) scores and use of condom in the most recent sexual intercourse. Conclusions: Considering the association of high-risk behaviors with lower mental health among FSW, psychological interventions are needed in order to prevent high-risk behaviors and HIV transmission.