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HIV related knowledge and prevention among Thai female commercial sex workers in Japan

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Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine Aims and scope

Abstract

A survey of 87 Thai female commercial sex workers (TCSW) was conducted in Tokyo and surrounding areas to investigate their: 1) living conditions, 2) knowledge about HIV/AIDS and sources of information, and 3) working conditions and dealings with clients. Data were mainly collected by “snowballing” with semi-structured interviews. The results showed a majority of participants knew HIV could be contracted through sexual intercourse and that condom use could protect against HIV infection. However, some TCSW reported failing to use condoms despite having requested clients to do so. Reasons for client compliance with condom use were discussed. Although a majority of the participants underwent HIV testing at least once every 3 months, they did not learn much about HIV prevention through public information and education. The results suggest that workers and clients need more detailed information concerning HIV prevention as well as a greater accessibility.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Community Health, School of International Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, 113-0033, Tokyo, Japan

    Nigoon Jitthai

  2. Japan Foundation for AIDS Prevention, Japan

    Nigoon Jitthai

  3. Department of Legal Medicine, Niigata University School of Medicine, Niigata

    Michio Miyasaka

Authors
  1. Nigoon Jitthai
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  2. Michio Miyasaka
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Correspondence to Nigoon Jitthai.

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Jitthai, N., Miyasaka, M. HIV related knowledge and prevention among Thai female commercial sex workers in Japan. Environ Health Prev Med 3, 190–196 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02932257

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02932257

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