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Male sex workers in Antwerp, Belgium: a descriptive study
E Leuridan1, K Wouters, M Stalpaert
1Department of Epidemiology and Social Medicine, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium. elke.leuridan@ua.ac.be
Abstract:
The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STI), sociodemographic and behavioural characteristics in a population of male sex workers (MSW) in Antwerp, Belgium. Between September 1999 and March 2004, 129 MSW were reached by Gh@pro, an outreach programme providing preventive health care, free STI check-up and hepatitis B vaccination, to sex workers (SW). Sera were collected from 121 men, urine samples from 115 men and a questionnaire was filled in by 43 MSW. In 45.5% of MSW one or more STI were diagnosed (including hepatitis B), 76% on laboratory testing at first screening, 9% through symptomatology at first visit. The prevalence of HIV was 10.8%, hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection 28.9%, syphilis 12.5%, gonorrhoea 1.7% and Chlamydia trachomatis 9.7%. More than 50% of non-immune MSW completed their three-dose hepatitis B vaccination course. Prevalence of STI is concordant with published data on MSW; this population clearly requests and deserves particular attention and approach. There is an important difference in sociodemographic and behavioural characteristics between MSW working in the red light district and those working on the street. Health promotion should be tailored to the different subpopulations and outreach appears to be a successful tool.
Insights
Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are common among male sex workers (MSW) in Antwerp, with high rates of HIV and hepatitis B. Targeted outreach programs are effective for prevention and healthcare.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Male sex workers (MSW) represent a key population for sexually transmitted infection (STI) surveillance.
- Understanding the prevalence of STIs and associated risk factors in MSW is crucial for effective public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of STIs, including HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), syphilis, gonorrhea, and Chlamydia trachomatis, among MSW in Antwerp, Belgium.
- To describe the sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics of this population.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of an outreach program in providing preventive healthcare.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 129 male sex workers in Antwerp between September 1999 and March 2004.
- Data collection included serum and urine samples for laboratory testing, and a questionnaire for sociodemographic and behavioral information.
- An outreach program (Gh@pro) provided free STI check-ups and hepatitis B vaccination.
Main Results:
- A high prevalence of STIs was observed, with 45.5% of MSW diagnosed with at least one STI.
- Specific prevalences included HIV (10.8%), HBV (28.9%), syphilis (12.5%), gonorrhea (1.7%), and Chlamydia trachomatis (9.7%).
- Significant differences in characteristics were noted between MSW working in the red light district versus on the street.
Conclusions:
- Male sex workers in Antwerp exhibit a substantial burden of STIs, necessitating targeted public health strategies.
- Outreach programs are effective in engaging MSW for preventive healthcare, including STI screening and vaccination.
- Health promotion initiatives should be tailored to the distinct subpopulations within the MSW community.
