A Study of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among female prisoners in Birjand

Although Iran is amongst the countries with the lowest prevalent HIV, the rising incidence of AIDS in Iran indicates that there should be a plan for active preventive measures in high- risk populations. This study aimed at surveying the prevalence of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI) and their risk factors among female prisoners in Birjand. It was explained to 224 incarcerated women that the interview and gynecologic examination were not compulsory and anonymous blood sampling would be done and the results of these would remain confidentional. Of these, 199 cases volunteered for the study. A researcher filled a questionnaire per each interview. For HIV, RPR, and HbsAg anonymous blood sampling was performed. Gynecologic examination was undertaken by a researcher who was a gynecologist and vaginal smear for gonorrhea and trichomonia were taken. The patients aged 16 to 73 years with mean 35±12.3. 71.4% were married and 28.6% were widows or divorcee. History of remarriage, addiction and tattooing was 11.1%, 51.3%, and 38.2%, respectively. Almost all (98.5%) were detained for narcotic charges and 1.5% for illegal sex. There was history of other marriage, addiction and incarceration of husband in 29.6%, 35.7% and 38.2% respectively. Out of 102 addicts 10 (9.8%) were IV drug abusers. HIV and RPR tests were negative in all the women. HbsAg, Smear for trichomonia and gonorrhea were positive 7.5%, 9.5%, and 4.5%, respectively. There was significant relationship between tattoo and HbsAg (P=0.04) as well as between positive smear for trichomonia and husband addictions (P=0.009) and other marriages (P=0.005). STI prevalence was low and no HIV positive woman was found even among IV drug abusers. Educational program about tattooing, which was the only risk factor for HbsAg positive test among female prisoners, should be implemented. Women who had been incarcerated more than 12 months had a lower rate of positive gonococci smear (P=0.04).