A behavioral and serological survey of HIV infection among truck drivers and clients of female sex workers in Benin
Journal Title: International Journal of Medical Science and Public Health - Year 2017, Vol 6, Issue 8
Abstract
Background: Between 2006 and 2012, the HIV rate in Benin remained stable at 1.2%, with some variation occurring between different segments of the population. It is known that truck drivers and clients of female sex workers (FSWs) are at higher risk for HIV infection. Objectives: This study seeks to better understand the changes in behavioral and serological indicators of HIV infection within these two social groups. Materials and Methods: We use descriptive and statistical methods to analyze cross-sectional data from gathered from all major population centers in Benin. Out of the 1400 commercial sex clients expected to enroll in the survey, 1008 participated, which represents an enrollment rate of 72%. In addition, 865 truck drivers participated in the study, which was carried out in 2015. Data were collected using an interview questionnaire and through blood samples. Results: Most truck drivers (80.2%) and clients of FSWs (88.0%) are Beninese and, for both groups, the average age was 29. The survey results also indicate that 12.1% of commercial sex clients and 8.8% of truckers had used drugs at least once in the past. In addition, 51.2% of clients of FSWs had recently been sexually active with multiple partners, and 43.4% had visited a FSW. In the case of truck drivers, 44.4% declared having recently had intercourse with multiple partners and 20.0% had paid for sex. In total, 79.5% of commercial sex users and 59.4% of truck drivers are well-informed about HIV/AIDS. Moreover, the survey data indicate that HIV rates in both groups dropped in comparison to 2012: HIV prevalence among clients of FSWs fell from 2.3% to1.3% and, in the case of truck drivers, from 3.2% to 1.2%. Conclusion: The results of our study highlight the need to reinforce programs and communication strategies that aim to raise awareness among clients of FSWs and truck drivers about HIV prevention measures.
Authors and Affiliations
Hessou S, Dougnon T V, Glele Ahanhanzo Y, Imorou B C A, Ahoussinou C, Zannou D M, Baba-Moussa L
Keywords
Related Articles
- EP ID EP326565
- DOI 10.5455/ijmsph.2017.0410327062017
- Views 102
- Downloads 0
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of family planning among Muslim women of North India
Background: Muslims are the second largest minority group in India. Research has shown that Muslim population have higher fertility rate which favor larger family size. Various sociodemographic factors play important rol...
Heart rate variability among reproductive and postmenopausal women
Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) has been proposed as the most sensitive indicator of autonomic function especially for the assessment of sympathovagal balance. It has also been proposed that there is sympath...
Pattern of internet use among college going adolescent students in Nagpur city: A cross sectional study
Background: The internet has playing extensive role in our daily lives. Internet use has both positive and negative aspects. The use of the internet on schools campus and in society has increased dramatically in recent y...
Purple urine bag syndrome: a case report
Purple urine bag syndrome (PUBS) is a unique disease entity characterized by an alarming purple discoloration of the urine secondary to bacterial urinary tract infection with indigo- and indirubin-producing bacteria. T...
Physiological changes in some hematological and coagulation profile among Sudanese healthy pregnant women
Background: Pregnancy is a period of reproduction during which a woman carries one or more live offspring from implantation of a fertilized zygote in the uterus throughout gestation. There are several physiological...