Expert: Ralph Salier - 8/23/2007

Question
Where to find what percentage of American males that have used prostitutes:  I had researched this question in the 1980s.  I came across information that said 80% of white American males between the ages of 23 and 65 had used a prostitute.  I found this amazing but since then have not been able to find research on this topic.  Where would I find information pertaining to the percentage of American men who have used prostitutes?

Answer
Mr. Smith.  I think that you may be refering to the information in the Hytte Report.  This has since been shown to be dubious at best. There is some research being done for NYC and LA but these are limited in scope and have very narrow definitions for prostitution.  (it must be for an exchange of money for services rather then goods for services though I don't really see the difference). Some argue that by either of these definitions, marriage would fall into this as well.  I'm not in agreement with this sentiment although it depends on how this is viewed.  

But to answer your question, no other then these two studies, I am not aware of any thing done on a nation wide basis unless the CDC is keeping tabs on such things via the STD statistics or something.  

I would not be surprized if the number is between 35 and 55% vs. the higher figure.

With the advent of HIV,and the relatively low incidence of infection rates in the US, even with safe sex practices, I would venture to hold to my numbers.

You can sponser a poll via MyView.com and see what kind of results you get.