AIDS-related perceptions and condom use of prostitutes in Korea

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of AIDS-related knowledge and attitudes of prostitutes on condom use from diverse 'sex markers' in Korea. The data were collected by interviewers at five different 'sex markets'. During March 1993, research assistants at the Institute of Health Services Research interviewed 371 prostitutes visiting sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics. Multiple regression method was used in identifying the determinants of condom use. The level of condom use was regressed on personal characteristics of prostitutes, AIDS-related perceptions, and market type. Prostitutes' level of condom use turned out to be different across the markets featuring diverse types of services and fees. Neither perceived vulnerability nor perceived seriousness of AIDS had significant effects on condom use. Our findings suggested that the many AIDS-preventive educational efforts by STD clinics are ineffective. Hence, individual STD clinics need to develop AIDS-preventive education programs which are suitable for the unique circumstances of their respective 'sex markets'.

Sex work practices and condom use in female sex workers in Sydney

“…On univariate analysis in this study, many of the factors associated with inconsistent condom use were similar to those previously reported from other studies. [4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13] However, the only factors shown to be independently associated with inconsistent condom use were speaking Thai or Chinese at home, and having worked in the industry in Thailand. This suggests that condom use behaviour in these women may be determined by previous experience in Thailand and that health promotion activities should be language-and culture-specific.…”

“…3 Predictors of condom use among SWs include knowledge about HIV and other STIs, level of selfesteem, an environment supportive of condom use, perception of personal risk, perceptions about decrease or increase in pleasure with condom use, working in a brothel or massage parlour as opposed to on the street or in bars and the availability of condoms. [4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11] In addition, low rates of condom use are associated with non-paying sex partners as opposed to paying partners of SWs. 12,13 This study was undertaken to gain insight into sex work practices, including the number of clients per shift, the number of shifts per week and sexual behaviour with non-paying partners.…”