In South Africa, 62% of female sex workers (FSW) are estimated to be living with HIV. Qualitative research indicates that FSW share antiretroviral therapy (ART) with peers to surmount treatment barriers. We quantitatively described ART sharing, its correlates, and its relationship with viral suppression (VS) among FSW living with HIV in eThekwini, South Africa. Among FSW on ART (n = 890), 30% ever shared (gave and/or received) ART. Sharing ART was more likely among those with higher levels of alcohol use, illicit drug use, depression severity, and physical/sexual violence in the adjusted model. There was a positive, dose-response relationship between number of pills given to peers in the last 30 days and VS likelihood (aPR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.08; p < 0.01). Giving pills may strengthen peer relationships, which may facilitate ART adherence. ART distribution through peer networks holds promise as a context-appropriate intervention for improving ART adherence among FSW in this setting.
Keywords: HIV; anti-retroviral therapy; drug diversion; sex work; south africa.