Promoting HIV Testing and Condom Use Among Filipina Commercial Sex Workers: Findings from a Quasi-Experimental Intervention Study

Abstract

This study examines the effects of a multi-level social action-based theory (SABT) intervention to increase HIV testing and consistent condom use among female commercial sex workers (FCSWs). Respondents in four socio-demographically similar Philippine cities received an SABT intervention based on: (1) peer influence; (2) manager training; (3) combined peer/manager influence; or (4) usual care (control condition). HIV testing increased 86% from baseline (N = 980) to follow-up (N = 903), and was significantly associated with higher HIV/AIDS knowledge, lower probability of contracting HIV and increased condom use. After adjusting for socio-demographic, HIV knowledge and perceived control variables, FCSWs in the manager training and combined peer/manager conditions were significantly more likely to engage in consistent condom use. Mediational analyses revealed higher HIV/AIDS risk perceptions and a supportive work environment related to increased condom use. These findings support a growing body of research suggesting the need for multi-level sexual risk reduction interventions among FCSWs.

HIV Testing and Counseling Among Female Sex Workers: A Systematic Literature Review

“…Chanda et al [49]ZambiaN = 40FSWsQLn/an/aPregnancyProtecting one’s childSeeking birth controlFamily planningHigher HIV knowledge8. Chiao et al [45]PhilippinesN = 980FSWs (baseline)N = 903FSWs(post test)QN, randomized quasi-experimentaln/an/aOlder ageBetter educatedLonger employed in SWRegular SPHigher incomeHigher HIV knowledgeHigher perceived risk9. Dandona et al [18]IndiaN = 6648FSWsQN,CSEver tested:7.9%Unwilling:73%16–17 years oldLow incomeEngaged in SW > 5 yearsHigher income10.…”

“…Chanda et al [49]Fear of stigma and discriminationHIV stigmaSW stigmaIntimate partner violencePotential financialTime restrictionsCommunity/close social networkFear of poor confidentialityn/aCommunity empowermentNorm-changing interventions8. Chiao et al [45]n/aSupport from peers and managersn/an/aEducation of peers and managers9. Dandona et al [18]Non-participation in self support groupNon street-basedParticipation in support groupn/an/an/a10.…”

“…Highly educated women in the Philippines and Iran were more likely to test [39, 45], but studies in China reported higher HIV testing uptake amongst women with both high [23] and low education level [31]. In two studies conducted in China and one in the Philippines, older age facilitated HIV testing [31, 44, 45], but in Russia, Ethiopia and Kenya older-aged FSWs [46, 47] and those aged + 30 [27] were less likely to test compared to younger FSWs. In Uzbekistan and India, younger age decreased testing [18, 32].…”

“…In Uzbekistan and India, younger age decreased testing [18, 32]. Higher income was associated with testing in India and the Philippines [18, 45] and in Russia poverty impeded access to healthcare, including HIV testing [24]. …”

Investigation of Factors Affecting Medication Adherence Among People Living with HIV/AIDS under Non – Governmental Organizations in Senegal

“…The explanation for this alarming disparity of result has been adduced to poor adherence to HAART regimens. Despite the fact that AIDS is a very co mplex d isease, patients simply do not recognize the importance of adhering to the medication regimen [16]. So me believe that the negative side effect of AIDS medicat ion outweighs the life lengthening effects and may decide to discontinue treatment [15].…”