Bloodborne pathogens in the adult film industry: Worker health and safety issues

The adult film industry (AFI) is a large, legal industry that generates at least $9 billion annually. The nature and duration of the sexual acts performed in adult films create conditions particularly conducive to the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Under current law, employers are required to protect workers from potential bloodborne pathogens. Nonetheless, the majority of AFI producers disregard legal requirements mandating barrier protection and adult film performers are consistently exposed to potentially infectious matter. Industry-adopted screening practices are insufficient when considering pathogen-specific incubation periods, time between screenings, and anatomic sites tested. As a result, many infections are undiagnosed. HIV infections have been repeatedly identified in heterosexual AFI performers in California. A 2010 outbreak is currently under investigation but has been restricted by industry attempts to limit public health access to employment, medical, and laboratory records.

Panelists will describe performer characteristics, infection surveillance data, public health challenges, and the role of academics in protecting performer health. The session will begin with a description of the personal health risks of performers as compared to the general population. We will next present surveillance data of STIs from performers screened. A current multi-jurisdictional investigation into potential STI/HIV transmissions within the AFI will be described, highlighting strategies and barriers in dealing with a challenging and diffuse industry. Finally, we will describe the efforts of an academic group to promote performer safety. Panelists will present proposed legislation and regulatory remedies to better protect workers.