A meta-analysis and systematic review of HIV risk behavior among fishermen

With HIV prevalence levels up to 30%, fishermen as a group have a comparable prevalence to at-risk populations such as female sex workers (FSWs), truck drivers, military personnel, and prisoners. This study examines sexual risk behavior among fishermen, primarily in Africa and Asia. A meta-analysis embedded within a systematic review is utilized for this study. This study included 44 peer-reviewed articles and gray literature from 1992 to 2012. The study found that 42% of fishermen engaged in transactional sex, 48% of whom reported not using a condom with FSWs. Ninety percent of the fishermen reported having partners outside of their regular partner, but only 7% reported using a condom with their regular partner. Mobility, peer norms, and alcohol were found to be contextual risks for HIV infection. The findings have important implications for HIV prevention, targeting fishermen, and their sexual networks. Prevention strategies are needed to address HIV risk among this population.