Seroprevalence of HIV/AIDS in sex workers and drivers of heavy transport from the city of León

Abstract

HIV/AIDS is a growing problem in Nicaragua, particularly in the western region of the country. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to identify the seroprevalence of HIV/AIDS and risk behaviors among sex workers and heavy transport drivers who travel through the León bypass. The sample consisted of 100 individuals. After signing a written informed consent form, participants completed an epidemiological survey and provided a blood sample for HIV testing. The HIV/AIDS seroprevalence was 1% among heavy transport drivers. The most significant risk behaviors identified were: not using condoms, frequency of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and the number of sexual partners. Sex workers undergo HIV/AIDS testing more frequently than heavy transport drivers. It is concluded that, for every 50 heavy transport drivers passing through the León bypass area, at least one may be HIV positive, and that sex workers make better use of preventive measures against HIV/AIDS.