Epidemiological Profile and Risk Factors Related to Sexually Transmitted Infections in Sex Workers in Granada (Spain)

TL;DR

This study examines the health risks and profiles of sex workers in Granada, Spain, highlighting their vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections and the need for better healthcare access.

Contribution

The study provides an epidemiological profile and identifies risk factors specific to sex workers in Granada, emphasizing healthcare gaps in this marginalized group.

Findings

Most sex workers in the study were women with a mean age of 28.52 years and a high percentage of foreign nationality.

The study found a lack of adequate healthcare coverage for this vulnerable population.

Sexual behaviors associated with STI risk were analyzed, underscoring the need for prevention interventions.

Abstract

Background: Sex work is one of the oldest trades in the world. It is the practice of sexual activity in exchange for money or material goods. It has traditionally been carried out by women, although in recent years, there has been an increase in the number of male sex workers. Sex workers have been recognized as a population at high risk of contracting and transmitting sexually transmitted infections and human immunodeficiency virus and have had limited access to multiple services, including health care. Objective: The aim was to identify the epidemiological profile and risk factors of a population of sex workers in the province of Granada, southern Spain. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted by reviewing the medical records at a specific sexually transmitted infection center in Spain. Results: A total of 157 sex workers’ records were analyzed, most of whom were women, who mainly identified as heterosexual, with a mean age of 28.52 years and a high percentage of foreign nationality. Some sexual behaviors associated with the acquisition of sexually transmitted infections were also analyzed. Conclusions: The results revealed a deficient coverage of the health needs of a highly vulnerable and stigmatized social group, highlighting the need for interventions to prevent risky habits, as well as to promote behaviors aimed at achieving better sexual health.