HIV-1 infection among non-intravenous drug user female prostitutes in Spain. No evidence of evolution to pattern II.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence of HIV-1 infection among non-intravenous drug user (IVDU) female prostitutes in Spain and to determine risk factors for HIV-1 infection in this population.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional seroepidemiological study of 519 non-IVDU prostitutes.

SETTING

Four university hospitals.

METHODS

All participants completed a questionnaire and provided a serum sample. Serum samples were tested for antibodies against HIV-1, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Treponema pallidum.

RESULTS

Twelve out of the 519 (2.31%) participants were HIV-1-seropositive. HIV-1 infection was associated with the presence of both HCV and T. pallidum antibodies, multiple sex partners, longer history of prostitution, history of genital ulcers and anal intercourse. Condom use was associated with HIV-1 seronegativity.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of HIV-1 infection in non-IVDU prostitutes in Spain remains relatively low. Risk increases with a higher rate of sexual exposure and practices such as anal intercourse and unprotected coitus.