Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections, including human immunodeficiency virus HIV , among female sex workers operating at truckstops in the KwaZulu-Natal midlands of South Africa. Methods: A total of sex workers were recruited from August to March A gynecologic examination, including a speculum examination, was performed.
Investigations were performed to identify gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia infection , candidiasis, trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, and HIV infection. Results: A total of Infection with Trichomonas vaginalis was present in Conclusion: The high prevalence of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, clearly highlights the urgent need for interventions.
In addition to empowering women with methods they can use and control to reduce their risk of infection, an effective approach to control of sexually transmitted infections also needs to recognize the role of the clients, such as truck drivers, so that they also are targeted for interventions.
PIP: Findings are reported from a study conducted to assess the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, among female prostitutes working at truckstops in the KwaZulu-Natal midlands of South Africa. The participating prostitutes were recruited from 5 truckstops along the major national road between Durban and Johannesburg from August to March Their mean age was 25 years and they had been prostitutes for an average of 3 years.
A gynecologic examination was performed upon each woman, including a speculum examination, and investigations were also conducted to identify gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, candidiasis, trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, and HIV infection.
