Psychological Wellbeing and HIV Risks of Female Sex Workers in China

Literature has documented the association between psychological wellbeing and HIV risks but such studies are limited for female sex workers (FSWs) worldwide. Data on this area are particularly scarce in China where millions of FSWs play an important role in the escalating HIV epidemic. This book has three aims: first to investigate the present knowledge on behavioral studies of FSWs in China and identify the literature gaps; second to examine the risk factors associated with FSWs' suicidal ideation and attempts; and third to explore the relationship between depressive symptoms and FSWs' condom use behaviors. The first study is based on a systematic review of English literature regarding FSWs in China. The second and third study draw data from a community-based HIV/STD intervention study with FSWs in Guangxi China. The data reveal that FSWs in China have poor psychological wellbeing with high rates of suicidal behaviors and depression. Their mental health problems are associated with HIV- related sexual risks. Health education and promotion efforts among FSWs in China need to take into consideration their level of psychological distress.