Information and communications technology use among young female sex workers participating in a randomised human immunodeficiency virus prevention trial in Kampala, Uganda.

Kasujja, Francis X; Mutabazi, Hillary; Muhanguzi, Eva; Seeley, Janet; King, Rachel; (2021) Information and communications technology use among young female sex workers participating in a randomised human immunodeficiency virus prevention trial in Kampala, Uganda. International Health, 13 (6). pp. 650-652. ISSN 1876-3413 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/inthealth/ihab013

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This study was conducted to determine the level and feasibility of use of information and communication technology (ICT) and social media for research and service delivery among young female sex workers (YFSWs) in Kampala, Uganda. METHODS: We analysed baseline data from 234 YFSWs in Kampala ages 15-24 y participating in a randomized controlled trial testing a cognitive behavioural human immunodeficiency virus prevention intervention. RESULTS: Mobile phone ownership (68.3%) and short message service use (64.9%) were moderate and significantly lower in the 15- to 19-y age group. Computer use experience and internet access were low. CONCLUSIONS: We believe that the feasibility of ICT and social media-driven interventions among YFSWs is limited.