Background of Sex Work and Health Related Problems among Female Commercial Sex Workers in Chattogram City

Background: Among the health related problems, commercial sex is one of the leading occupational health problems in Bangladesh. To understand the health risks among female sex workers is very important. This risks may be due to work related problems and others. This study was done to understand the socio demographic profile, background of commercial sex and health related problems among the female sex workers. Materials and methods: The study was a cross-sectional study conducted during the period from 6th to 31st March 2026. A purposive sampling technique was applied to select 69 female sex workers and data were collected by face to face interview using a structured questionnaire. Obtained results were compiled and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Chi square test was done to see the association between socio demographic problem and background of commercial sex. Results: Among the 69 sex workers, 58(84.05%) respondents were aged between 25 to 40 years. Muslims were predominant in this study which constituted about 46(66.7%). Majority 60(87%) of the respondents were married. 38(55.1%) had primary level of education, 19(27.5%) were illiterate, 52(75.4%) came from nuclear family and 37(53.7%) belonged to lower middle class. 47(68.1%) had income ranging from TK. 20,000 to 50,000. Among the 69 study subjects, 55(79.7%) had joined in sex work at the age of 18-25 years and 14(20.3%) had started at the age of 25-40 years. 35(50.7%) were in this work for 1-5 years and 34(49.3%) were working for more than 5 years. All 69 were involved in other profession earlier. Regarding number of clients, it was seen that 21(30.4%) had 2 clients per day, 45(65.2%) had 3-5 clients and 3(4.3%) had more than 5 clients per day. All 69 respondents were involved in other professions. 38(55.1%) said they quitted previous job due to bad working condition, 9(13%) for personal issues, 8(11.6%) for family problems and 14(20.3%) for less income. 32(46.4%) joined sex work at their own wish, 30(43.5%) due to more income and 7(10.1%) were cheated and trapped in this profession. All the respondents of the current study knew about sexually transmitted diseases. 5(7%) suffered from hepatitis and 17(25%) suffered from scabies. 52(75.4%) said that they had a guilty feeling for joining sex work and 53(77%) wanted to quit sex. Conclusion: This study concluded that female sex workers got involved in sex work for more income and low socioeconomic status. Socio demographic factors were sensible to develop health risks. Increasing awareness and educational support might help to reduce the work-related health risks among female sex workers. IAHS Medical Journal Vol 9(1), June 2026; 39-43