Philippine E-Journals

Profiling the HIV/AIDS Risk Sexual Behavior of Male Transactional Sex Workers in Manila, Philippines

Gilmore G. Solidum

Discipline: Education, Health

 

Abstract:

The Philippine Health Department sounded the alarm on the steady increase of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV-AIDS) cases in the Philippines particularly in the male to male sexual contact transmission. There is a dearth of academic work regarding male transactional sex workers in the country thus the need for this study. This study identified the HIV/AIDS risk sexual behavior of male transactional sex workers in Manila and correlated the behavior with selected demographic variables. A two-week cross-sectional survey in Malate using snowball sampling technique was used to recruit 30 respondents – male transactional sex workers. Face to face interviews were conducted. Chi-square determined how selected demographic information of the respondents correlated with HIV/AIDS risk sexual behavior. Respondents were 16-31 years old, mostly single and high school graduates who live with their families. Many perceived that their job is essential for their families’ survival. Almost all denied using drugs. Most engaged in bisexual acts without using condom. Many denied having sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Perceived economic value of the job was significantly related to condom use and experience with STIs. Drug use significantly correlated with age. Swift action is needed to address the increase of HIV/AIDS cases. It is necessary to understand the risk sexual behavior of men who have sex with men so prevention programs could be designed.