The Department of Health recommended the conduct of surveys among potential HIV risk sub-populations that were not included in the regular HIV surveillance to assess the level of risk. One such group is the male truckers. To document HIV prevalence and to identify practices that predispose them to acquiring and transmitting HIV, FETPAFI conducted a study in Central Luzon to satisfy the above objectives.
Male truckers (truck drivers and their assistants) plying the Pampanga-Tarlac route for at least six months prior to interview were purposively sampled with their usual halt points sampling sites. Data were gathered through face-to-face interviews using a standard interview schedule. Trained medical technologists collected blood samples for HIV and syphilis testing. Only truckers who agreed to the interview and blood testing were included in the analysis.
From May 15 to July 15, 2003, a total of 416 male truckers were interviewed, 350 of who agreed to HIV and syphilis testing. Ages ranged from 17 to 60 years with a median of 30 years. Majority was married and had some high school education.
History of blood transfusion was reported by 7 (2%) truckers. Twenty-six (7%) were previously tested for HIV. Fifty-four (15%) had signs and symptoms of sexually transmitted infections, 91% did not consult. Body piercing and tattooing were reported by 36 (10%) and 39 (11%) truckers respectively. One hundred twenty three (35%) admitted to using drugs but not one used injectables.
Only thirty percent of the respondents knew that mutual monogamy, the consistent use of clean needles and syringes and the consistent use of condoms prevent HIV transmission. Sixty four percent had more than two misconceptions on HIV transmission. One hundred forty three truckers believed that they could be infected with HIV. Twenty three percent were supportive of HIV infected persons.
Two hundred seventy five or (78%) had sex with women in the last six months; 71 (26%) with non-commercial/ non-regular partner (NCNR) and with 46 (17%) female sex workers. Four and six male truckers used condoms the last time they had sex with their NCNR and FSW partners respectively. Five (1.4%) had sex with men and no one used condoms.
Some information on HIV/AIDS were received by forty three percent of truckers. Majority got their information from television, which was also their most credible source.
Blood samples of six truckers tested positive for syphilis; none for HIV.
HIV prevalence for HIV among male truckers in Central Luzon is less that one percent. However, this study revealed their poor knowledge on HIV prevention and their exposure to risky practices. Together with a high prevalence for syphilis, vulnerability to acquiring HIV is thus increased. To increase the level of knowledge of this group on HIV prevention, practical ways of disseminating information must be devised. There is a need to involve other sectors like the Philippine Trucking Association, local government units, and other non-government associations in devising such measures. Inclusion of male truckers as one group for HIV surveillance activities is also recommended.
