Incidence of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among HIV-Positive Sex Workers in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

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Abstract
Improved treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is associated with decreased HIV incidence. However, the success of such programs among HIV-positive sex workers has not been shown. GOAL The goal of the study was to determine the incidence of STIs ( and infections) among HIV-positive sex workers. A cohort of HIV-positive sex workers was treated for all STIs at baseline and observed monthly to detect and treat new infections. Seventy-seven HIV-positive sex workers were followed up for a total of 58.1 women-years. The incidence rate per 100 women-years was 150 (CI: 120-180) infections; 66 (CI: 45-87) infections; 30 (CI: 14-42) infections; and 244 (CI: 200-280) STIs of any type. In this cohort of HIV-positive sex workers the incidence of STIs was high, despite their participation in a prevention program comprising monthly STI treatment, counseling, and condom promotion.