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Depressive symptoms, alcohol, and drug dependence among female sex workers in Kisumu, Kenya: A cross-sectional study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Female sex workers (FSW) have increased likelihood of depressive symptoms, alcohol and drug dependence. Analysis of cross-sectional baseline data from 407 women in a trial of menstrual cups was done to assess depressive symptoms (PHQ-9), alcohol (AUDIT) and drug dependence (DAST). Multinomial logistic regression identified factors associated with having 2 or 3 elevated scores, relative to having no elevated score. Median age was 27.3 years; 60% of the FSWs had less than secondary education, 41% had other jobs besides sex work, and over half (52.9%) reported experiencing sexual abuse during childhood. The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 20% (15% mild, 5% moderate or higher). One quarter (25%) of participants had some classification for alcohol dependence, and 15% were classified as having potentially hazardous drug dependence. Multiple problems were identified in 14.4% of participants. The results highlight the interconnectedness of mental health, drugs and alcohol use among FSWs in western Kenya.

Source: African Journal of Reproductive Health

DOI: 10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i14.9