Prevalence and Factors Associated with Sexual Violence among Male Sex Workers (MSW) on Antiretroviral Therapy in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Sexual violence is commonly thought of as an issue affecting primarily women and girls; however, stigma, discrimination, and violence are also expressed towards men who have sex with men (MSM), male sex workers (MSW), and transgender (TG) individuals. Our study examined the prevalence and predictors of Sexual Violence among Male Sex Workers in Kenya

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was administered among 260 MSW living with HIV reached through a combination of chain referral and venue-based sampling in Kenya.

Results: There is a high prevalence of sexual violence among MSW in this population 48.5% (n=126). Religious denomination; main source of income; duration on treatment; receiving gifts and materials in return for sex; and belonging to a group were significantly associated with sexual violence (p<0.005).At the multivariate analysis level; Respondents that received gifts and materials in return to sex were 2.1 times more likely to experience sexual violence compared to those that did not (CI: 1.1-4.9). Those who did not belong to a group were 1.8 times more likely to experience sexual violence (CI: 1.9-3.7).

Conclusion: A better understanding of sexual violence among MSM/MSW/TG populations is necessary in order to develop clear and specific recommendations for future interventions targeting this issue.