Condom use and sexually transmitted infections among Malagasy sex workers.

Abstract

I am endorsing the article because it is critical to obtain authentic data for any research; in particular those pertaining to human SUbjects so as to eliminate use of erroneous data which, when interpreted into activities, may cause harm. The significance of this study is that behaviour that depends on 'self reporting can be subjective in that the respondent can report conformity just to please the researcher. I have experienced this in reported consistent condom use, but when biomarkers are used to validate the 'consistent use' of condoms, sexually transmitted infections have been diagnosed (e.g. gonorrhoea in female sex workers in the programme). This then can then be translated to mean that condoms were not properly and consistently used. Another example is that antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) have been found unused by the patients on home visits. Notwithstanding, the non-adherence had not been reported. According to this particular patient, she was afraid of telling the clinician (during her routine clinic visit) because of fear of being reprimanded. In conclusion, reported social behavioural activities aimed at preventing morbidity and mortality should be validated by an appropriate biomarker