Abstract
In Burkina Faso, despite the decline in HIV prevalence to below 1% in the general population since 2013, it remains high among key populations composed primarily of female sex workers (FSWs). FSWs are a heterogeneous group with various risks and practices. Within this composite group, less attention has been paid to female bar waitresses (FBWs). We conducted a cross-sectional study to investigate HIV prevalence and associated factors among FBWs in Bobo-Dioulasso.
After bar mapping and outreach on the benefits of HIV testing, FBWs from various drinking establishments were invited to visit the Yerelon clinic for free HIV testing and free medical care for sexually transmitted infections and other diseases from October 2012 to September 2014. Mobile HIV testing was also implemented to reach waitresses at their workplace.
Between October 2012 to September 2014, 513 FBWs were tested at least once for HIV. Their median age was 26 years with an interquartile range ((IQR) of 21-30). The overall HIV prevalence among waitresses was 10.9% (95% CI: 8.45 – 14.07). HIV prevalence was higher in the fixed strategy at the Yerelon clinic 17.3% (95% CI: 13.0 – 22.2) as compared to the mobile strategy 3.4% (95% CI: 1.4 – 6.6). In the multivariate model, being older than 25 years (AOR = 5.1, 95% IC: 2.3 – 11.2) and being tested in the Yerelon clinic (AOR= 5.5, 95% IC: 2.5 – 12.1) remained strong predictors of HIV infection among FBWs.
In summary, HIV prevalence remains higher among FBW than in the general population and justifies their classification as high HIV risk groups. As the HIV epidemic becomes concentrated in key populations and a combination of HIV prevention is promoted, all categories of female sex workers as well as their clients must be considered for an appropriate response.
Keywords
HIV, Prevalence, Waitress, Female sex workers, Risk factor, Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso