Peer support and access to information as predictors of HIV testing among indirect female sex workers in Bali, Indonesia

Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic in most Asian countries is concentrated among at-risk populations, such as female sex workers (FSWs). In Indonesia, Bali’s FSWs have a high-rate of HIV infection. This study investigates the predictors of HIV testing among indirect female sex workers (IFSWs) in Denpasar, Bali. Material and methods: The researchers conducted an analysis of secondary data from a survey performed among IFSWs in Denpasar Bali in 2017. There were 200 IFSWs participating in the survey using random cluster sampling. The dependent variables examined in this study was HIV testing, while the independent variables included: 1) respondent’s demographics (age, education level, marital status, work location, and length of work), 2) peer support, and 3) access to information about HIV prevention. The association between independent and dependent variables were analyzed using multiple logistic regression models. Results: The results showed that 70.0% of IFSWs in Denpasar have accessed HIV testing in the last 6 months and received their test results. Also, 56.5% of the study’s respondents reported a lack of peer support in relation to HIV/AIDS, and 63.5% reported having adequate access to information about HIV testing. The logistic multiple regression results revealed that two factors were significant predictors of HIV testing among IFSWs, such as adequate access to information about HIV testing and prevention (OR = 2.21; 95% CI: 1.15-4.30), and peer support (OR = 2.29; 95% CI: 1.21-4.34). Conclusions: Efforts to improve the provision of information about HIV testing and prevention as well as peer support related to HIV/AIDS are required to increase the numbers of IFSWs accessing HIV testing.