A Structural HIV Prevention Intervention Targeting High-risk Women
A Structural HIV Prevention Intervention Targeting High-risk Women
The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a community based combination HIV prevention package, including biomedical, behavioral, and structural services for female sex workers (FSW) in Baltimore, Maryland. This study is a prospective two-group trial comparing the efficacy of a community-based comprehensive HIV/STI prevention package compared to standard of care (HIV testing, counseling, and referrals) among FSWs. Outcomes will be assessed through self-reported illicit drug use and sexual risk behaviors (behavioral) as well as HIV/STI testing (biological).
This study aims:
To examine the effect of exposure to community intervention components on HIV/STI risk behaviors (e.g., drug use/unprotected sex), and HIV/STI cumulative incidence over time in FSWs in the intervention (n=275) compared to those in the comparison group (N=175);
a. to explore the intervention's effects on the risk environment of exotic dance clubs (N=15) over time
To examine how socio-structural (e.g., social cohesion, stigma) and structural vulnerability (e.g., financial and housing stability) indicators change and are associated with the biological and behavioral outcomes over time in FSWs in the intervention (n=275) compared to those in the comparison (n=175) group
a. examine the role of these indicators as mediators of the intervention effect on study outcomes;
To examine the intervention's implementation through qualitative (e.g., in-depth interviews) and quantitative (e.g., assessment of program fit, reach, facilitators, barriers, program costs) measures.
3.1 To examine participant knowledge of the COVID-19 crisis as well as the impact of the crisis on their mental, and physical well-being.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria: