Testing for and Treating HIV among Sex Workers in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review

نویسندگان

1 Department of Health Service, Policy Planning, Management and Economics, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana

2 Department of Internal Medicine, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana

3 Department of Biochemistry, Faulty of Basic medical Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho, Oyo, Nigeria

4 Department of Internal Medicine, Upper East Regional Hospital, Bolgatanga, Ghana

5 Department of Paediatrics, University of Ghana Medical Center, Accra, Ghana

6 Department of Internal Medicine, Volta River Authority Hospital, Akosombo, Eastern Region, Ghana

7 Department of Internal Medicine, Korlebu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana

doi
10.48309/IJABBR.2025.2037429.1533
چکیده

The HIV transmission is disproportionately common among sex workers in sub-Saharan Africa, hence comprehensive screening and treatment programs are needed to prevent the epidemic. This review delves into the present approaches and obstacles related to HIV testing and treatment for sex workers in the area. The relationship of public health and human rights is where this issue really is important as ensuring that this vulnerable population has access to healthcare services can drastically lower HIV transmission rates and improve their quality of life. A variety of HIV testing methods are included in this article, such as self-testing techniques, facility-based testing, and community-based testing. It also looks at obstacles to efficient testing and treatment, including stigma, prejudice, restrictions imposed by the law, and problems with access to healthcare. The review demonstrates improved health outcomes and connection to care by highlighting the excellent outcomes of early detection and treatment. Current interventions are also mentioned, such as government and non-governmental organization initiatives and peer education programs. The review's conclusions imply that although there has been progress, there are still major problems that need creative solutions. Future directions to guarantee that sex workers receive comprehensive and continuous treatment include the use of technical innovations, policy reforms, and sustainable techniques. The health and well-being of sex workers in sub-Saharan Africa can be significantly improved by addressing these issues via coordinated efforts, which would ultimately help achieve the larger objective of ending the HIV epidemic.