Handling emerging health needs among a migrant population–factors associated with suicide attempts and suicide ideation among female street sex workers in Hong Kong

Objective

To examine factors in the work environment that are linked to the suicidal process among female street sex workers (FSSWs) in order to suggest interventions that would be appropriate among this marginalized group.

Design

Cross-sectional survey of female street sex workers in Hong Kong. The questionnaire contained questions regarding quality of life, health status, working environment, suicide ideation, mental health, as well as other personal and family characteristics. A number of statistical models were used to analyze this rich set of cross-sectional data.

Results

More than a quarter of the women surveyed reported to have considered or attempted suicide, nevertheless the specific timing of their suicide attempts was unclear. Accounting for background characteristics, factors that were inherent to the sex industry were significantly associated with poor psychological health and suicidality. Experience of stigma and previous employment experience prior to involvement in sex work were also highly correlated with increased incidence of suicide attempts. On the other hand, the presence of dependents and experience of social support were associated with lower probability of suicidality.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that a number of areas (e.g., increased emphasis on health education and promotion, self-esteem building, assertiveness training and client advocacy) warrant attention among health professionals practicing in the Asian region, particularly among mental health nurses.