Tukov Jenevarius Ndzelen
University of Buea, Cameroon
Title: HIV and STIs prevalence among female sex workers in Cameroon
Biography
Biography: Tukov Jenevarius Ndzelen
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSWs) are at heightened risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV. The purpose of this systematic literature review of STI/HIV prevalence for FSWs in Central Africa is to appraise and understand the burden of STIs and HIV.
Electronic databases searched included PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, Global Health, MeSH, Cochrane Library, Health Reference Center, Pro Quest, Psyc INFO, Science Direct, Social Services Abstracts, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Web of Science, and POP Line. Relevant articles published from 2007 to 2012 were identified. The findings of this multi-country regional review provided reliable evidence that despite prevention efforts, FSWs remain one of the main populations most affected by HIV/STIs. The review reveals that the prevalence of HIV/STIs among FSWs in a number of African countries is high, especially in Cameroon and Nigeria, two countries with the highest HIV and STI prevalence. Furthermore, FSWs who work on the street, or freelance, or use multiple venues are significantly more likely to be infected with HIV/STIs than those who work from a single venue.