The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #58782

Julie G. Cwikel, PhD, Center for Women's Health Studies and Promotion, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, POB 653, Beer Sheva, Israel, 972-8-6472321, jcwikel@bgumail.bgu.ac.il

Objectives: This study examined working conditions, reported physical and mental health morbidity on among sex workers (primarily trafficked) in Israel. This study compares two groups: those currently working and those who have been arrested and are awaiting deportation. Methods: This social epidemiological cross-sectional comparative survey used structured interviewing. Subjects: A purposive sample of 55 women working in brothels and 47 women in prison awaiting deportation, total N=102. Main outcome measures: Self-reported morbidity related to occupational health hazards, PTSD symptoms using the PCL check-list, depression using the short CES-D scale, traumatic events before age 18 and exposure to violence in prostitution. Results: Most women had been trafficked into Israel from countries of the former Soviet bloc and were working illegally, although the majority came to work in Israel in prostitution. Increased PTSD symptoms were evident in women who had more: reported traumatic events before the age of 18, traumatic events while working in prostitution, depressive symptoms, poorer self-rated health, symptoms of health problems and occupational health problems, time working in prostitution, days of work in the week and number of clients in the day. Depressive symptoms were related to current health problems but not to past or work-related trauma. Among those awaiting deportation, depressive symptoms were more common, consistent with their higher level of symptomatic health problems. The brothel and prison samples were very similar on demographic characteristics. Conclusions: The health of trafficked sex workers is affected by childhood experiences as well as current working conditions.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the unique demographic characteristics of trafficked women sex workers working in Israel.
• List 3 childhood and 3 occupational risks for current health problems.
• Understand more about the economic pressures of women who voluntarily choose to work in a foreign country as sex workers.
• Develop specific public health endeavors that might help sex workers who want to leave this work.

Keywords: Sex, Workplace Stressors

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Neveh Tirzeh Prison for women
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.