High frequency of illegal drug use influences condom use among female transgender sex workers in Argentina. Impact on HIV and syphilis infections.

FAZZI ML; MARONE R; AVILA MM; ROMERO M; PANDO MA; DOS RAMOS FARÍAS MS,; REYNAGA E

Aids and Behavior

Springer

Año: 2017

The alarming HIV prevalence found among female transgender sex workers (FTSW) in Argentina call for research about the factors driving these negative health consequences. Due to the particular characteristics of these groups (highly marginalized, experiencing school dropout and low adherence to healthcare services), we explored the association of several socio-demographic characteristics with syphilis and HIV infection, as well as the determinants of condom use. This study revealed that FTSW from Argentina were exposed to several risk factors that decrease their ability to negotiate condom use and put them to increased risk for HIV and other STIs. Strategies to reduce HIV in this population should consider interventions to decrease violence and substance use which appear to be the most important determinants. Results of this study will contribute to the global information among FTSW and will be useful to measure the impact of the new regulations.