Environmental Support and HIV Prevention Behaviors Among Female Sex Workers in China

To examine the influence of environmental support on HIV prevention behaviors (i.e., condom use behaviors, communication and intention, and HIV/STD testing) among female sex workers (FSWs)
in China.

A cross-sectional survey was administered among 310 FSWs recruited from entertainment establishments in Liuzhou City in Southwest China in 2006. Sex workers were asked about their demographicand working characteristics and their HIV prevention behaviors. Environmental support was measured by a scale consisting of 8 items regarding condom availability, managerial, and social support of HIV prevention. Environmental support is a significant predictor of HIV prevention behaviors among establishment-based FSWs in China. The data underscore the importance of developing environmental/structural HIV/STD interventions for FSWs. Condoms need to be easily accessible in the establishments. Gatekeepers need to be educated to create a supportive environment for condom use and HIV prevention.

(Abridged author abstract)