Prevalence and Correlates of HIV Infection among Female Sex Workers in 2 Mexico–US Border Cities

Abstract

Background. We examined human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence and correlates among female sex workers (FSWs) in Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez, 2 large cities on the Mexico-US border. Methods. FSWs aged ⩾18 years underwent interviews and testing for HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Logistic regression identified factors associated with HIV infection. Results. In 924 FSWs, the prevalence of HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis titers ⩾1:8 was 6%, 6.4%, 13%, and 14.2%, respectively. Factors independently associated with HIV were the injection of cocaine (odds ratio [OR], 2.96); the smoking, snorting, or inhalation of methamphetamine (OR, 3.32); and syphilis titers ⩾1:8 (OR, 4.16). Conclusions. Culturally appropriate interventions are needed to identify and treat ulcerative sexually transmitted infections and reduce HIV risks associated with stimulants among FSWs in the Mexico-US border region.