AIDS-Related Issues among Female Prostitutes and Female Arrestees

Abstract

Literature has documented a positive relationship between prostitution and sexually transmitted diseases. There have been efforts to educate prostitutes regarding sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS. To determine whether female prostitutes are more knowledgeable about AIDS than female non-prostitute arrestees, a comparison was made of their scores on a standard AIDS knowledge test. Results indicated that self-reported frequency of prostitution was significantly and positively related to knowledge about AIDS. Comparisons were also made between the two groups in terms of demographic characteristics, condom use, sexually transmitted disease rates and other related issues. The findings of this study highlight that continuing education is of paramount importance in the community's struggle against AIDS.