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AIDS and Behavior
Published in: AIDS and Behavior 2/2013

01-02-2013 | Original Research

Gender Based Violence as a Risk Factor for HIV-Associated Risk Behaviors Among Female Sex Workers in Armenia

Authors: Delia L. Lang, Laura F. Salazar, Ralph J. DiClemente, Karine Markosyan

Published in: AIDS and Behavior | Issue 2/2013

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Abstract

This cross-sectional study identified the prevalence of gender based violence (GBV) and examined its association with sexual risk behavior among female sex workers (FSWs). Among 120 participants between ages 20 and 52, a total of 56.7 % reported lifetime GBV. Multivariate analyses revealed that GBV was significantly associated with inconsistent condom use, unprotected sex, condom misuse, fear of client reaction to requests of condom use, self-reported history of STIs, and earlier age of initiation of sex work. GBV must be considered an urgent public health priority among FSWs in Armenia. Interventions addressing FSWs, in addition to targeting skill-based, sexual risk reduction must also introduce a discourse among FSWs, sexual partners, clients and community members about the role of GBV in HIV-associated risk behaviors and infection. Structural level initiatives must address economic opportunities for women, health-sector policies and responses to FSWs’ health needs, law enforcement training and societal norms toward women.
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Metadata
Title
Gender Based Violence as a Risk Factor for HIV-Associated Risk Behaviors Among Female Sex Workers in Armenia
Authors
Delia L. Lang
Laura F. Salazar
Ralph J. DiClemente
Karine Markosyan
Publication date
01-02-2013
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
AIDS and Behavior / Issue 2/2013
Print ISSN: 1090-7165
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3254
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10461-012-0245-7

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