Muhammad Ahmed Abdullah, Zeeshan Basharat, Anum Shafqaat, Bilal Kamal, Zahra Fatima Hasan, Asghar Dil Jan.
Awareness about sexually transmitted infections among hijra sex workers of Rawalpindi/islamabad.
Pak J Public Health Jan ;2(1):40-5.

Introduction: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a major public health issue. Unprotected intercourse is the main cause of spread of these diseases. Hijra is a distinctive gender role which includes true hermaphrodites (Khusras), crossdressers (Zananas) and eunuchs (Narnbans). Some of them sell sex to earn a living and are known as Hijra Sex Workers (HSWs). Recent evidence shows that they are key players in the spread of STI\'s. The current study was designed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of HSW\'s regarding STI prevention. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out among 120 HSW\'s in the cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad from March to May 2011. The samples were selected by using snow-ball sampling. After obtaining informed consent data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Results: Mean age of the population was 30 years. 55% of the population had basic knowledge about STI\'s, 63.2% had correct knowledge about mode of transmission of STI\'s, 82% had correct knowledge about symptoms of STI\\'s, 75% had no symptoms of the disease in the last 6 months. Majority of the population showed preference in going to a private clinic for the medical treatment (60%). 37.5% of study group knew about AIDS and categorized it a deadly disease. 12.5% knew that they are at threat of getting AIDS, whereas 99% of the population was sexually active, but only 27.5% practiced safe sex. 2.5% were IV drug abusers. Conclusion: Pakistan is at the brink of an HIV epidemic. To prevent HIV occurrence, all high-risk groups must be brought to the center of focus. Sex work is called the oldest profession in the world and is a major threat with regard to STI spread. We need immediate and robust health education and public health interventions to prevent the further spread of STIs, focusing on all types of sex workers including HSWs.

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