Objectives: The study evaluates the overall effectiveness of intervention programs among female sex workers in a Chinese community.
Study design: Behavioral surveillance data in 2003, 2004, and 2005 obtained from 2 communities (intervened and control) were compared.
Results: The baseline data (2003) of the 2 counties were not significantly different. In 2004 and 2005, the intervened county had significantly higher prevalence of condom use with their clients and regular sex partners (last-time and consistent use in the last month; OR = 2.2-33.2 in 2004 and 3.8-8.3 in 2005), higher HIV-related knowledge level (OR = 7.9 in 2004 and 17.3 in 2005), and lower STD prevalence (OR = 0.22 in 2004 and 0.11 in 2005). Coverage rates of HIV antibody testing and HIV-related services increased in the intervened county but decreased in the control county.
Conclusions: Intervention programs may result in substantial behavioral changes in a community within a few years.