HIV infection, risk behaviors, and depressive symptoms among Puerto Rican sex workers

Am J Public Health. 1994 Dec;84(12):2000-2. doi: 10.2105/ajph.84.12.2000.

Abstract

This paper examines the association of depressive symptoms with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and risk behaviors among 127 sex workers. Data were obtained by a structured interview and blood specimens tested for HIV. Findings showed a high prevalence rate of depressive symptoms for all sex workers regardless of HIV infection status. Results of a logistic regression analysis indicated that the use of injected drugs and engaging in unprotected intercourse with clients were strongly associated with a high level of depressive symptoms.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Condoms
  • Depression / complications*
  • Depression / epidemiology
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / complications
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Puerto Rico / epidemiology
  • Regression Analysis
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sex Work*
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous / complications