BMC Public Health. December , Cite as. This study was designed to examine the predictors of condom use with clients during vaginal intercourse among FSWs based on the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills IMB model and to describe the relationships between IMB model constructs. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Structural equation modeling was used to assess the IMB model. A total of Condom use was significantly predicted by social referents support, experiences with and attitudes toward condoms, self-efficacy, and health behaviors and condom use skills.
Significant indirect predictors of condom use mediated through behavioral skills included HIV knowledge, social referents support, and substance use.
Further research is warranted to develop preventive interventions on the basis of the IMB model to promote condom use among FSWs in China. Since the s the number of female commercial sex workers FSWs has markedly increased in China [ 1 ]. The number of women engaging in commercial sex is estimated to be 4 to 10 million [ 1 , 2 ]. Commercial sex plays a critical role in heterosexual transmission of human immunodeficiency virus HIV in China [ 1 ].
Heterosexual sexual transmission among cumulative HIV infection increased from Sex trade is not accepted by Chinese ethical standards and there is a substantial stigma to FSWs.
They are discriminated and marginalized in China [ 7 ]. In addition, the sex trade in China is clandestine due to unfavorable laws that impose fines and incarceration on FSWs and their clients if arrested.
