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. 2010 Jan;21(1):29-34.
doi: 10.1177/1043659609349063. Epub 2009 Oct 9.

Self-perceived stigma, depressive symptoms, and suicidal behaviors among female sex workers in China

Yan Hong  1 , Xiaoyi Fang, Xiaoming Li, Yang Liu, Mingquiang Li, Tom Tai-Seale
Affiliations

Self-perceived stigma, depressive symptoms, and suicidal behaviors among female sex workers in China

Yan Hong et al. J Transcult Nurs. 2010 Jan.

Abstract

Data regarding female sex workers' (FSWs) self-perceived stigma and their mental health are limited, particularly in developing countries. This study, using a cross-sectional survey among 310 FSWs in China, addresses this issue. Data indicate that most of these FSWs had medium to high levels of self-perceived stigma, 30% had elevated depressive symptoms, 18% had suicidal ideation, and 9% had suicidal attempt in the past 6 months. After controlling for potential confounders, FSWs' high-level self-perceived stigma was significantly associated with their poor mental health. The authors call for culturally appropriate approaches to reduce stigma and promote psychological well-being among this marginalized and vulnerable population.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of Conflicting Interests

The author declared no conflicts of interest with respect to the authorship and/or publication of this article.

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