Brief abstract

Researchers with the STD/AIDS Counseling and Training Services (SACTS) studied female sex workers in the Kathmandu region of Nepal to determine the rate of HIV/STD infection and attitudes related to HIV and STDs in general. During the study, conducted in 2000, 300 female sex workers from Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur were surveyed. Out of the study group, 259 were street-based sex workers, 33 worked in small lodges, and 8 worked in disco bars.

Evidence shows jump in FSW HIV rates

Researchers found there is clear evidence of increasing HIV prevalence among sex workers in Kathmandu.

Other major findings:

• HIV rates totaled 17.3%, while active syphilis cases reached 19.3%.
• Most sex workers (62%) were in the 20-29 age group; 14% of sex workers were aged 13-19.
• Only 18% of sex workers reported "all" clients use condoms; 53.7% said "most" clients do.
• In street-based sex workers, active syphilis rates were 21.2%; HIV infection, 18.5%.
• Among sex workers operating in lodges, active syphilis rates were 9.1%; HIV infection, 12.4%.

FSW clients may spread HIV

Based on the survey, researchers reported that the clients of HIV positive sex workers would take HIV home to their wives and regular sex partners. This, in turn, would initiate an increase of HIV among the general population.

Based on the research data, the scientists suggested a program should be developed for continuous monitoring of the situation. They also suggested an increase in the number of diagnostic and treatment facilities for STDs and HIV, and also outreach programs with peer group formation for counseling and condom dissemination.

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