Syphilis in female sex workers: an epidemiological study of the highway system of the state of Pará, northern Brazil.

INTRODUCTION

Female sex workers (FSWs) are considered a bridge for transmission of pathogens from high-risk to general populations. We assessed the epidemiological status of syphilis in FSWs along the Pará highway system.

METHODS

Two hundred and twenty-two FSWs were interviewed and samples were analyzed using rapid qualitative tests and real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

The prevalence of syphilis was high (36.94%). The high rate of prostitution, use of illicit drugs, and search for financial resources increased Treponema pallidum transmission through unprotected sex.

CONCLUSIONS

Several characteristics of FSWs were identified, which reinforce the need for measures guaranteeing their health and protection.