Drug use and its related factors among Iranian female sex workers: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundFemale sex workers (FSWs) are at a higher risk of several social and health issues including drug use. This study examines the status of illicit drug use among FSWs in Shiraz.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study conducted on 200 FSWs. Participants were selected through snowball sampling and were interviewed by voluntary sex workers registered with the Shiraz Vulnerable Women's Center (VWC).ResultsBased on the results, 16% of FSWs reported drug use, and 10% of FSWs stated drug use as the reason for choosing this job. Based on the results of multiple logistic regression, direct associations were found between substance use and history of imprisonment history of drug use among family, family income, and having delinquent friends. On the other hand, education and the number of siblings were inversely associated with drug use among FSWs.ConclusionsConsidering that drug use is highly prevalent among FSWs. Harm reduction programs related to drug use should target FSW as a priority population. Control measures such as parental and individual training, alternative sentences for juvenile delinquency, and more access to mandatory and higher education, are suggested to be considered to deal with a willingness to become a sex worker and use drugs.