Adolescent sex workers potentially have many health needs but are included rarely in health assessments; therefore, little is known about their needs or how to reach them. This study examines the motivations, social context and health needs of street-based adolescent sex workers. Seventy-eight female adolescents who traded sex for money, drugs, or other goods were asked questions related to risk behaviors,knowledge and attitudes regarding HIV/AIDS, and physical and mental health. The results show these youths are more likely to experience negative health outcomes, such as unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, when they are using drugs or are depressed. These findings suggest the need for comprehensive programming to include individual, interpersonal and greater environmental interventions. Examples for reaching adolescent sex workers are discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this session, the participants will be able to: 1. identify the health neds of female, adolescent sex workers in Puerto Rico, 2. describe necessary components of a comprehensive to reach female adolescent sex workers in Puerto Rico.
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Sex Workers
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.