There are about 2,650 commercial sex workers active in Kathmandu, according to a new International Labour Office-Kathmandu study. What's worrying is that at least half enter the trade at an early age-20 percent before 15, and a further 25 percent between 15 and 18. Six percent of those surveyed said they were coerced into the sex trade.

This study also says that despite these grim figures, campaigners running awareness programs deserve a pat on the back-92 percent of sex workers surveyed said they knew how HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases are spread, which has helped keep their prevelance fairly low. The study also indicates the direction social aid organisations need to head in-almost all respondents said they would change their profession if alternatives are available.