RESUMO
This cross-sectional study examines the relationship between social cohesion with consistent condom use (CCU) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among the Abriendo Puertas (Opening Doors) cohort of female sex workers (FSWs) living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the Dominican Republic (n = 228). Using data from the follow-up survey of the cohort, we conducted multivariate logistic regression to explore these dynamics. Social cohesion was significantly associated with CCU between FSWs living with HIV and their clients in the last month (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11-2.45) and STI prevalence among FSWs (AOR: 3.76, CI: 1.159-12.162). Social cohesion was not associated with CCU between FSWs living with HIV and their steady partners. However, both illicit drug use in the past six months (AOR = 0.11, CI: 0.023-0.57) and pregnancy intentions (AOR = 0.11; CI: 0.02-0.42) were significantly associated with CCU with steady partners. Findings highlight the differential role of social cohesion on condom use outcomes between FSWs living with HIV and their paying clients versus steady partners. Research on the pathways via which cohesion influences condom use among sex workers and their clients is merited, as is research regarding the role of drug use and pregnancy intentions on condom use with steady partners.
Assuntos
Preservativos/estatística & dados numéricos , Infecções por HIV/epidemiologia , Relações Interpessoais , Trabalho Sexual/estatística & dados numéricos , Profissionais do Sexo/psicologia , Parceiros Sexuais , Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis/epidemiologia , Adulto , Estudos Transversais , República Dominicana/epidemiologia , Feminino , Infecções por HIV/tratamento farmacológico , Humanos , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Prevalência , Sexo Seguro/estatística & dados numéricos , Profissionais do Sexo/estatística & dados numéricos , Fatores SocioeconômicosRESUMO
Sexual minority men and transgender women are disproportionately affected by HIV in Guatemala. Innovative prevention strategies are urgently needed to address these disparities. While social network approaches are frequently used to reach sexual minorities, little is known about the unique network characteristics among sub-groups. We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with 13 gay-identifying men, eight non-gay-identifying men who have sex with men (MSM) and eight transgender women in Guatemala City. Using narrative and thematic coding procedures, we identified distinct patterns in the size, composition, and overlap between social and sexual networks across groups. Gay-identifying men had the largest, most supportive social networks, predominantly comprising family. For both non-gay-identifying MSM and transgender women, friends and sex clients provided more support. Transgender women reported the smallest social networks, least social support, and the most discrimination. HIV prevention efforts should be tailored to the specific sexual minority population and engage with strong ties.
Assuntos
Infecções por HIV/prevenção & controle , Homossexualidade Masculina/etnologia , Comportamento Sexual/psicologia , Apoio Social , Pessoas Transgênero/psicologia , Adolescente , Adulto , Feminino , Guatemala , Infecções por HIV/etnologia , Homossexualidade Masculina/psicologia , Humanos , Entrevistas como Assunto , Masculino , Comportamento Sexual/etnologia , Adulto JovemRESUMO
The purpose of this study was to explore local perceptions and experiences regarding vaccines in general and HIV vaccines and vaccine trials in the Dominican Republic. In-depth interviews were carried out with 25 participants representing two study groups: (1) individuals considered at high risk for HIV infection including female sex workers and male STI clinic attendees and (2) individuals considered at low risk of HIV infection including women and men recruited at a general outpatient clinic. Across the groups, participants often characterized vaccines in general as having both preventive and curative properties. In turn, one of the most salient concerns regarding the receipt of an HIV vaccine was the fear that one would be labelled 'HIV positive' and stigmatized, as the vaccine may be perceived as a cure for those already infected. These findings suggest the importance of individual and community level education to clarify the nature and mechanisms of the given HIV vaccine being tested. Social support and counselling services should also accompany HIV vaccine trials and distribution plans to assist individuals in determining if and how they communicate their participation and/or receipt of an HIV vaccine to others and manage potential negative social reactions.