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Review
. 2020 Apr;17(2):151-160.
doi: 10.1007/s11904-019-00477-y.

HIV/AIDS Among Female Sex Workers in China: Epidemiology and Recent Prevention Strategies

Hanxi Zhang  1 , Evelyn Hsieh  2 , Lu Wang  3 , Susu Liao  4
Affiliations
Review

HIV/AIDS Among Female Sex Workers in China: Epidemiology and Recent Prevention Strategies

Hanxi Zhang et al. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep. 2020 Apr.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review aims to describe the epidemiology of HIV among female sex workers (FSWs) in China over the past decade, to summarize current gaps in knowledge regarding risk factors, and to identify new directions for HIV prevention strategies.

Recent findings: We summarized national and regional levels of HIV prevalence among FSWs based on reported rates in the literature from 2008 to 2018. Studies identified cases of HIV infection among FSWs in all but one province during this time period, and demonstrated a sporadic pattern in most provinces, with a low overall national HIV prevalence below 1%. However, in Yunnan and Guanxi Zhuang Autonomous Regions, the median-reported prevalence rates were close to or slightly above 1%. National prevention programs have widely promoted male condoms as a primary and practical measure for HIV prevention, but studies evaluating condom use practices among FSWs demonstrated wide variability. A rise in illicit use of synthetic drugs and changing sexual practices in the setting of sex work (e.g., anal sex) may represent newer risk factors for HIV transmission among FSWs; however, more data are needed to better characterize these trends. Limited studies have examined the feasibility and efficacy of innovative prevention tools (e.g., female condoms) or strategies (e.g., pre-exposure prophylaxis, PrEP) to prevent HIV among FSWs. We call for a more comprehensive understanding of current trends in HIV risk among FSWs, as well as more research focuses on innovative strategies to reduce the spread of HIV in this vulnerable population.

Keywords: Female sex workers; HIV prevalence; HIV prevention; HIV surveillance; Male and female condoms; PrEP.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest Zhang Hanxi, Wang Lu, and Liao Susu declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Dr. Hsieh has previously received honoraria from Gilead, unrelated to this manuscript.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Median HIV Prevalence among FSWs in China,by Province
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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