Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Female Sex Workers towards Human Papillomavirus. Primare Care Center of Santa Ana. District of Panama. Year 2011.

Abstract

Introduction. Prevalence of Human Papillomavirus in Panama is 55% in women over 15 years of age, according to a study from Gorgas Conmemorative Institute. Commercial sex workers have a higher risk of contracting Human Papillomavirus because of their profession.

Objectives. To determine knowledge, attitude and practices on female sex workers towards Human Papillomavirus treated at the primary care center in Santa Ana.

Methods. Descriptive, cross-sectional study. The universe was comprised of 200 women and the sample of 132 with a confidence level of 95%; this was chosen through convenience sampling. The data collection instrument used was a questionnaire-type survey, using the interview technique.

Results. 65% of female sex workers are in an age range of 18-29 years old. 93.20% of sex workers who attend to the primary care center of Santa Ana have deficiency knowledge about Human Papillomavirus. We observed that the percentage of female sex workers who have an acceptable attitude was higher in those with poor knowledge. On the other hand, 77.30% made ​​acceptable practices for the prevention of human papillomavirus.

Conclusion. This study concludes that knowledge about Human Papillomavirus among female sex workers who receive medical attention at the primary care center of Santa Ana is poor, but despite this, they have good attitudes and practices regarding Human Papillomavirus.

Keywords. Human papillomavirus infections, condoms, sexually transmitted diseases, uterine cervical neoplasms, sex worker.