The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #38452

Hilary L. Surratt, James A. Inciardi, PhD, and Marion C. Kiley. University of Delaware Research Center, University of Delaware, 2100 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 1202, Coral Gables, FL 33134, 305 529-1911, hlsny@aol.com

Violence against women is a major public health problem in the United States. Survey data indicate that some 1.5 million women are victims of intimate partner violence annually, and that nearly 700,000 are forcibly raped each year. However, there is little epidemiologic data on the experience of violence by marginalized women, especially among drug-involved sex workers. This study targets commercial sex workers for HIV, hepatitis, and violence prevention education. At the field office, clients complete a baseline interview regarding drug use and sexual behaviors, exposure to violence, and health status, and participate in HIV/Hepatitis and violence prevention education. Pre-test counseling and blood testing for hepatitis and HIV are then conducted. Test results, post-test counseling, and additional prevention education are provided two weeks later. To date, some 300 women have been enrolled into the study. 41% reported at least one violent victimization or threat of violence in the past month, while 57% reported at least one such exposure in the past year. Specifically, 22.8% were attacked with weapons, 21.1% were beaten, 21.3% were raped, and 67% were emotionally abused in the past three months. Importantly, none reported seeking rape crisis or mental health counseling, and 18% received treatment in the emergency room during the same period. In addition, 17% tested positive for HIV, 51% tested HBV positive and 41% were positive for HCV. This study examines the linkages between violence and HIV/hepatitis risk, and the findings suggest that violence prevention should be included in HIV and hepatitis prevention initiatives.

Learning Objectives:

1)Understand the nature and extent of violence experienced by women sex workers
• Recognize the potential risks for HIV and other STD infections from sexual violence
• Discuss the methods by which street-based sex workers can reduce their exposure to violence

Keywords: Women and HIV/AIDS, Violence Prevention

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.