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Agimas MC, Solomon M, Shewaye DA, Abebaw Angaw D, Derseh NM. Prevalence of delayed treatment for sexually transmitted infections and its determinants in sub-Saharan Africa. A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299629. [PMID: 38512837 PMCID: PMC10956779 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infection is a common public health issue, and it is characteristically transmitted through sexual intercourse. Around the globe, particularly in less developed countries, delayed treatment of this infection could lead to a health and economic burden. Even though the health and economic burden of sexually transmitted infections is high, studies to identify the pooled proportion and the possible factor of delayed treatment seeking are rare in sub-Saharan African countries. OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence of delayed treatment for STIs and its determinants in sub-Saharan African countries. METHOD Articles searched on search engines like Medline via PubMed, HINARI, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and websites like Google Scholar. The searching mechanism was using keywords and medical subject heading terms by combining the key terms of the title. To assure the quality of the included articles, Joana Brigg's Institute critical appraisal checklist was used. To assess the heterogeneity of the studies, a sensitivity analysis was conducted. The PRISMA checklist was used, and to estimate the pooled odds ratio, a random effect model was considered. The pooled odds ratio of 95% CL was used to identify the factors. RESULTS About 13 studies with 46,722 participants were incorporated. Despite considerable heterogeneity, the pooled prevalence of delayed treatment for STI in Sub-Saharan Africa was 47% (95% CI: 42%-51%, I2 = 98.42, p<0.001). Geographically, the higher pooled prevalence of delayed treatment for STI was in the eastern part of Africa (50%) (95% CI: 41%-59%, I2 = 98.42, p<0.001). Rural residence (OR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.03-2.01, I2 = 39.3%, p-value = 0.19), poor knowledge about STI (OR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.04-2.13, I2 = 93.1%, p-value = <0.001), perceived as STIs not serious (OR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.86-2.36, I2 = 73.7%, p-value = 0.022), misconception for STD cause (OR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.12-1.72), no education (OR = 4.1, 95% CI: 3.4-5.1), primary education (OR = 3.17, 95% CI: 2.23-4.2), and secondary education (OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.1-2.76) as compared to secondary and above education were factors associated with delayed treatment for STIs. CONCLUSION The pooled prevalence of delayed treatment for STIs in Sub-Saharan African countries was high. Poor knowledge, attitude, and educational status affect the treatment delay for STIs. Thus, improving knowledge, educational status, and attitude are highly recommended to reduce the delayed treatment of STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muluken Chanie Agimas
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Milkias Solomon
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Alayu Shewaye
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Dessie Abebaw Angaw
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Nebiyu Mekonnen Derseh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Semá Baltazar C, Muleia R, Ribeiro Banze A, Boothe M. Prevalence and correlates of hazardous alcohol drinking and drug use among female sex workers and men who have sex with men in Mozambique. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:872. [PMID: 38515116 PMCID: PMC10956320 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18273-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hazardous drinking and drug consumption are associated with an increased risk of HIV due to the complex interplay of factors influencing decision-making capability, stigma and social marginalization. In this study, we explore the patterns of hazardous alcohol and drug use and correlates of risk factors among female sex workers (FSW) and men who as sex with men (MSM) in Mozambique. METHODS We conducted a secondary data analysis of bio-behavioral surveys (BBS) among FSW and MSM using a respondent-driven sampling methodology conducted in five main urban areas of Mozambique from 2019 to 20. The survey included a standardized questionnaire, where hazardous drinking was assessed (using AUDIT-C scores ≥ 4 for men, ≥ 3 for women) and drug use in the last year (FSW). Chi-squared test was used to analyze the association between socio-demographic and behavioral variables, and multivariate logistic regression measured the impact of the associated factors. RESULTS The prevalence of hazardous alcohol drinking was 47.1% (95% CI:44.8-49.5) for FSW and 46.5 (95% CI: 44.0-49.0) for MSM. Current drug use was reported in 13.3% of FSW. FSW engaging in hazardous alcohol drinking reported more sexual partners in the last month than those no reporting hazardous alcohol use (55.3% vs. 47,1%, p < 0.001), higher rates of self-reported STIs in the last year (62,5% vs. 48,2%, p < 0.001), physical (53.5% vs. 46.7%, p < 0.0001) and sexual violence (54.7% vs. 44.2%, p < 0.001), and HIV prevalence (55.2% vs. 44.2 p < 0.001). Among MSM with hazardous alcohol drinking, there was a higher prevalence of self-reported STIs (52.8% vs. 45.4%, p < 0.001), experiences of sexual violence (18.0% vs. 8.3%, p < 0.001), and HIV prevalence (53.0% vs. 46.3%, p < 0.001). In addition, FSW who reported illicit drug use were more likely to self-reported HIV own risk (14.2% vs. 9.7%), early start sexual activity (15.4% vs. 5.3%), self-reported STIs (17.9% vs. 10.2%), and experiences of both physical (17.4% vs. 7.0%) and sexual violence (18.6% vs. 8.9%). CONCLUSION There is an immediate need for the introduction and integration of comprehensive substance use harm mitigation and mental health interventions into HIV prevention programs, particularly those targeting key populations in Mozambique.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachid Muleia
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde, Maputo, P.O. Box 264, Mozambique
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Nguyen TPV, Yang W, Tang Z, Xia X, Mullens AB, Dean JA, Li Y. Lightweight federated learning for STIs/HIV prediction. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6560. [PMID: 38503789 PMCID: PMC10950866 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56115-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This paper presents a solution that prioritises high privacy protection and improves communication throughput for predicting the risk of sexually transmissible infections/human immunodeficiency virus (STIs/HIV). The approach utilised Federated Learning (FL) to construct a model from multiple clinics and key stakeholders. FL ensured that only models were shared between clinics, minimising the risk of personal information leakage. Additionally, an algorithm was explored on the FL manager side to construct a global model that aligns with the communication status of the system. Our proposed method introduced Random Forest Federated Learning for assessing the risk of STIs/HIV, incorporating a flexible aggregation process that can be adjusted to accommodate the capacious communication system. Experimental results demonstrated the significant potential of a solution for estimating STIs/HIV risk. In comparison with recent studies, our approach yielded superior results in terms of AUC (0.97) and accuracy ( 93 % ). Despite these promising findings, a limitation of the study lies in the experiment for man's data, due to the self-reported nature of the data and sensitive content. which may be subject to participant bias. Future research could check the performance of the proposed framework in partnership with high-risk populations (e.g., men who have sex with men) to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the proposed framework's impact and ultimately aim to improve health outcomes/health service optimisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Phuoc Van Nguyen
- School of Mathematics, Physics and Computing, Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba Campus, Toowoomba, 4350, QLD, Australia.
| | - Wencheng Yang
- School of Mathematics, Physics and Computing, Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba Campus, Toowoomba, 4350, QLD, Australia
| | - Zhaohui Tang
- School of Mathematics, Physics and Computing, Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba Campus, Toowoomba, 4350, QLD, Australia
| | - Xiaoyu Xia
- School of Computing Technologies, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, 3001, VIC, Australia
| | - Amy B Mullens
- School of Psychology and Wellbeing, Institute for Resilient Regions, Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich Campus, Ipswich, 4305, Australia
| | - Judith A Dean
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston Road, Brisbane, 4006, QLD, Australia
| | - Yan Li
- School of Mathematics, Physics and Computing, Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba Campus, Toowoomba, 4350, QLD, Australia
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Dookhith ABF, Razack A, Isaacs AA. Investigating causes of the high prevalence of sexually transmitted infections in Du Noon. S Afr Fam Pract (2004) 2024; 66:e1-e8. [PMID: 38572874 PMCID: PMC11019072 DOI: 10.4102/safp.v66i1.5794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In South Africa, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) represent a significant public health issue. Sexually transmitted infections contribute significantly to the burden of disease in South Africa and are recognised as one of the main causes of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential causes of the high prevalence of STIs in the Du Noon population. METHODS A mixed methodology study involving 40 participants between the ages of 18 years and 45 years was conducted at Du Noon community health centre from 01 May 2021 to 15 May 2021. Both structured questionnaires and one-on-one patient interviews with open-ended questions were utilised to collect data. RESULTS Cultural beliefs, having multiple partners, a lack of partner notification, alcohol consumption, and a lack of condom usage were found to be the main contributing factors to the high incidence of STIs. Sex education appears to be lacking. Our findings reflected the other well-known cultural and socioeconomic issues confronting South African communities, for example, poverty, age-disparate relationships, and polygamous relationships. CONCLUSION The cultural perspectives and understandings of sexual interactions of older men appear to have an impact on younger generations; as do peer pressure, social media and other socio-economic factors. There is an urgent need to shift cultural ideologies and norms among the youth. More research is needed to understand the views and misconceptions of the general public about STIs.Contribution: This study highlighted how health education challenges, interpersonal relationships, and socioeconomic barriers are still important factors in STI transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azhaar B F Dookhith
- Division of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa; and Metro Health Services (Western Cape), Cape Town.
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Hamill MM, Onzia A, Parkes-Ratanshi RM, Kyambadde P, Mande E, Nakate V, Melendez JH, Gough E, Manabe YC. Antibiotic overuse, poor antimicrobial stewardship, and low specificity of syndromic case management in a cross section of men with urethral discharge syndrome in Kampala, Uganda. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0290574. [PMID: 38489281 PMCID: PMC10942085 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE High prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) combined with poor antimicrobial stewardship are drivers of STI antimicrobial resistance (AMR) especially in resource-limited settings where syndromic case management (SCM) is the norm. We characterized patterns of antibiotic use prior to clinic attendance and study enrollment in Ugandan men with urethral discharge syndrome (UDS), evaluated in-clinic prescribing, and the performance characteristics of SCM. METHODS Participants were recruited from government clinics participating in an existing gonococcal surveillance program in Kampala, Uganda. Questionnaires including antimicrobial use prior to attendance, prior episodes of UDS, penile swabs, and blood samples were collected. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (OR) for preselected factors likely to be associated with antibiotic use. In-clinic antibiotic treatment data were extracted from clinical notes, and the performance of SCM against laboratory-based STI diagnoses was evaluated. FINDINGS Between October 2019 and November 2020, 100(40%) of 250 men with UDS reported taking antibiotics in the 14days prior to attending the clinic. Of these 210(84%) had at least one curable STI and 20% had a reactive point-of-care HIV test. Multivariable analysis demonstrated significant associations between recent antimicrobial use and duration of UDS symptoms <6 days (OR 2.98(95%CI 1.07,8.36), p = 0.038), and sex with women only (OR 0.08(95%CI 0.01,0.82),p = 0.038). The sensitivity of SCM ranged from 80.0% to 94.4%; specificity was low between 5.6% and 33.1%. The positive predictive value of SCM ranged from 2.4(95%CI 0.7,6.0) for trichomoniasis to 63.4(95%CI 56.5,69.9) for gonorrhea. CONCLUSION Pre-enrollment antibiotic use was common in this population at high risk of STI and HIV. Combined with the poor specificity of SCM for male UDS, extensive antibiotic use is a likely driver of STI-AMR in Ugandan men. Interventions to improve antimicrobial stewardship and deliver affordable diagnostics to augment SCM and decrease overtreatment of STI syndromes are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew M. Hamill
- Division of infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Annet Onzia
- Infectious Disease Institute, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Peter Kyambadde
- Ministry of Health, National Sexually Transmitted Infections Control Program, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Johan H. Melendez
- Division of infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Ethan Gough
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Yukari C. Manabe
- Division of infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Infectious Disease Institute, Kampala, Uganda
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Gazzetta S, Valent F, Sala A, Driul L, Brunelli L. Sexually transmitted infections and the HPV-related burden: evolution of Italian epidemiology and policy. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1336250. [PMID: 38560434 PMCID: PMC10978588 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1336250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health problem worldwide, with a high prevalence between the ages of 15 and 25 in most Western countries. High notification rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are reported in the WHO European Region, with differences between countries. In Italy, the total number of STIs alerts increased by 18% from 2020 to 2021. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection; globally one in seven women is infected by this virus, and certain sexual behaviors are important risk factors for HPV-related cancers, particularly cervical cancer (CC), anogenital cancers and cancers of the head and neck. The burden of CC is relevant worldwide, in particular in Europe CC is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women aged 15-44. This HPV-related tumor is preventable through a combined strategy of vaccination and screening for precursor lesions. In Italy, the coverage of organized screening varies from region to region and the average HPV vaccination rate is still far from the expected optimal threshold of 95% at the age of 12. To address the challenges of health promotion and HPV prevention, priority actions are needed such as: promoting education and information at every level, from schools to healthcare professionals. In Italy, education of adolescents on sexual and reproductive health, still remains critical, regionally inhomogeneous and much lower than in other European countries. Equitable measures need to be taken, and schools are an important place for health promotion activities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Valent
- Institute of Hygiene and Clinical Epidemiology, Friuli Centrale University Healthcare Trust, Udine, Italy
| | - Alessia Sala
- Departement of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Lorenza Driul
- Departement of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ASUFC, Ospedale Santa Maria Della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Laura Brunelli
- Departement of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Accreditation, Quality and Clinical Risk Unit, Friuli Centrale University Healthcare Trust, Udine, Italy
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Wick JM, Pelliccione A, Tran HN, Skarbinski J. Concurrent Sexually Transmitted Infections with Mpox Infections: A Brief Review. Perm J 2024; 28:42-45. [PMID: 38192218 PMCID: PMC10940232 DOI: 10.7812/tpp/23.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Mpox is a viral zoonotic infection endemic to countries in Central and West Africa. The outbreak that began in May 2022 is novel for its global spread and transmission through sexual encounters. Research of this outbreak shows a high rate of concurrent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in patients with mpox, highlighting the need to consider STIs in mpox management, and to raise awareness of historically high levels of STIs caused by inadequacies in sexual health care. It is critical to prioritize sexual health and address health disparities to control current transmission of infections and prevent future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna M Wick
- Department of Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Alex Pelliccione
- Department of Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - H Nicole Tran
- Department of Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Jacek Skarbinski
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Oakland Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
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Givi J, Fitzgerald MP. The first-to-test bias: Impact of testing order on assigning responsibility for contagion. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297965. [PMID: 38483925 PMCID: PMC10939239 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
When a contagious disease spreads, people wonder about who to blame for transmission. Herein, we document a novel bias, the "First-To-Test" bias, that emerges when individuals assign responsibility for contagion within a dyad. People tend to believe that the member of the dyad who tested positive first is more likely to have given the disease to the other member, even when all other relevant factors are held constant. That is, while using testing order as a basis for assigning responsibility for a dyad's contraction of a contagious disease may be rational in cases where all other relevant factors are not held constant, we show that individuals are more likely to allocate responsibility to whoever tested positive first even when these relevant factors are held constant. This overgeneralization bias emerges regardless of whether the evaluator is an outside observer or the member of the dyad who tested positive first. While we explore this bias with COVID-19 and strep throat, it has implications for other contagious diseases such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and illnesses often spread among school children (e.g., influenza, whooping cough). We conclude by discussing its implications for patients and organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Givi
- Department of Marketing, John Chambers College of Business and Economics, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, United States of America
| | - M. Paula Fitzgerald
- Department of Marketing, John Chambers College of Business and Economics, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, United States of America
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Eltobgy A, Aljabali A, Farag A, Elshorbgy M, Hamed M, Hamouda E, Hamouda H, Refaey N, Kabeel M, Amro S, Abouheseba T, Tarek M. Effects of pubic hair grooming on women's sexual health: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:171. [PMID: 38468306 PMCID: PMC10926629 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-02951-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pubic hair grooming involves the partial or complete removal of pubic hair, and it is a common practice among men and women. Grooming is more prevalent in women, who employ various methods such as shaving, waxing and laser removal. However, it is associated with variable rates of post-grooming adverse outcomes including lacerations and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review and meta-analysis comparing women's sexual health outcomes between those who groom and those who don't. METHODS We followed the MOOSE guidelines and conducted a computerized-based search using (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Ovid Medline), till June 20th, 2022, for eligible studies using the relevant keywords; (pubic hair grooming) OR (pubic hair removal OR Genital hairless OR Bikini hair removal OR pubic hair depilation). Cross-sectional studies included which compared grooming practices among women in terms of motivation and health outcomes. Women's satisfaction and incidence of STIs were pooled as standardized mean difference (SMD) and odds ratio (OR) respectively. RESULTS Twenty-Two cross-sectional studies were included in our review with 73,091 participant.The odds of having gram-negative gonorrheal and chlamydial infection in Pubic hair groomers were found to be statistically significant (OR = 1.55, 95% CI [1.31, 1.84], P < 0.001) (OR = 1.56, 95% CI [1.32, 1.85], P < 0.001] respectively. There was no difference between groomer and non-groomer women regarding viral infections such as genital herpes (OR = 1.40, 95% CI [0.56, 3.50], P = 0.47) and Condyloma acuminata (OR = 1.75, 95% CI [0.51, 6.01], P = 0.37). The most common grooming side effect is genital itching (prevalence = 26.9%, P < 0.001). Non-electrical razor (prevalence = 69.3%, P < 0.001) is the most common grooming method. White women (prevalence = 80.2%, P < 0.001) remove pubic hair more frequently compared to black women (prevalence = 12.2%, P < 0.001). Women practice complete grooming (50.3%, P < 0.001) of the pubic hair more frequently than partial grooming (33.1%, P < 0.001). There are no differences in women's satisfaction between the two groups (SMD = 0.12, 95% CI [-0.16, 0.40], P = 0.39). CONCLUSION This review aligns with previous observational studies regarding sexual health outcomes of pubic hair grooming. There is a need to raise awareness among women regarding the safe practice of pubic hair grooming, emphasizing the clarification of hazards and benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Eltobgy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine For Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed Aljabali
- Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Farag
- Faculty of Medicine, Misr University for Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohammad Elshorbgy
- Faculty of Medicine, Misr University for Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mona Hamed
- Faculty of Medicine, Gharyan University, Gharyan, Libya
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Esraa Hamouda
- Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Heba Hamouda
- Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Neveen Refaey
- Department of Physical Therapy for Women's Health, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa Kabeel
- Faculty of Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Cairo, Egypt
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sarah Amro
- Faculty of Medicine, Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Toka Abouheseba
- Faculty of Medicine, Asyut University, Asyut, Egypt
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Tarek
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Al-Azhar University, P.O. Box 3050, Cairo, Egypt
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Diana P, Esposito S. Epidemiology, risk factors, and prevention strategies of HIV, HPV, and other sexually transmitted infections among cisgender and transgender youth: a narrative review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1342532. [PMID: 38515602 PMCID: PMC10955097 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1342532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Adolescents face an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with alarming data especially concerning HIV. Limited data exists for teenagers regarding the influence of their gender identity (GI) and sexual orientation on the risk of STIs. This narrative review aims to analyse the available data to provide a comprehensive overview of STIs incidence and risk factors among adolescents, taking into account the unique circumstances related to various sexual orientations and GIs. Transgender and gender minority (TGM) youth experience more challenges accessing health services compared to cisgender youth. This is often attributed to non-inclusive health environments, barriers to obtaining medical gender affirmation, and an underestimation of sexual risk perception. Literature analysis has revealed that the majority of adolescents, both cisgender and TGM, have limited awareness regarding the risks associated with their sexual behaviors, the most common sexually transmitted diseases, and strategies for prevention, such as PrEP and HPV vaccination. Moreover, a significant portion of pediatricians possess limited knowledge and comfort in addressing various aspects of sexual health, particularly when it involves discussing topics such as sexual orientation, gender identity, and sexual behaviors with sexually active adolescents. This underscores the pressing need for enhanced education for pediatricians, specifically focusing on STIs diagnosis, prevention, and screening.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Susanna Esposito
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Werner RN, Schmidt AJ, Potthoff A, Spornraft-Ragaller P, Brockmeyer NH. Position statement of the German STI Society on the prophylactic use of doxycycline to prevent STIs (Doxy-PEP, Doxy-PrEP). J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2024; 22:466-478. [PMID: 38123738 DOI: 10.1111/ddg.15282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, there has been a rise in the incidence of syphilis, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM). This has sparked interest in studying the prophylactic use of doxycycline to prevent syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), commonly referred to as Doxycycline Pre- or Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (Doxy-PrEP, Doxy-PEP). At the same time, demand from potential users for this preventive measure is increasing. Several randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that the prophylactic use of doxycycline in MSM and trans women using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (HIV-PrEP) or living with an HIV infection effectively reduces the risk of syphilis and chlamydia infections. At present, however, unresolved questions remain, particularly regarding implications of a broad implementation of prophylactic doxycycline to prevent STIs on tetracycline and other antimicrobial resistance in bacterial STIs, non-STI-related bacterial pathogens, and the microbiome. In response to the increasing demand and the challenge of balancing effectiveness, safety, and the risk of promoting antibiotic resistance, the German STI Society (DSTIG) has issued a position statement, providing specific recommendations regarding potential indications, criteria, and occasions for the use of doxycycline in STI prevention. These recommendations are based on current evidence and expert opinion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Niklas Werner
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Division of Evidence Based Medicine (dEBM), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Axel Jeremias Schmidt
- Sigma Research, Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Medicine and Health Policy, Deutsche AIDS-Hilfe, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anja Potthoff
- Interdisciplinary Immunological Outpatient Clinic, Clinic for Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr - Centre for Sexual Health and Medicine, Bochum, Germany
| | - Petra Spornraft-Ragaller
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Dermatology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Ludwick T, Walsh O, Cardwell ET, Chang S, Kong FYS, Hocking JS. Moving Toward Online-Based Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing and Treatment Services for Young People: Who Will Use It and What Do They Want? Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:220-226. [PMID: 37963329 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The market for online sexually transmitted infection (STI) services is rapidly expanding. Online health services often have unequal uptake among different demographics of the population. There is a need to understand how different online delivery options for STI testing may appeal to different groups of young people, particularly young people who have higher rates of STI diagnoses. METHODS An online survey of young Australians aged 16 to 29 years was conducted to understand service preferences regarding consultation (telehealth, fully automated questionnaire), testing (electronic pathology form, at-home self-sampling), and treatment (e-prescriptions, mailed oral tablets). Multivariable multinomial logistic regression examined associations between user characteristics and service preferences, and adjusted relative risk ratios (aRRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) are presented. RESULTS Among 905 respondents, rural youth were more likely to prefer fully automated questionnaires (aRRR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.0-3.5) over telehealth consultations, whereas culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) youth were less likely (aRRR, 0.4; 95% CI, 0.2-0.7). Rural youth preferred at-home self-sampling kits (aRRR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.3-2.7) over electronic forms for on-site collection at pathology centers, with the opposite for CALD youth (aRRR, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.5-1.0). Receiving oral antibiotics by mail was preferred by rural youth (aRRR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.1-4.6) over for in-clinic treatment, but not for CALD youth (aRRR, 0.5; 95% CI, 0.4-0.8). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that rural youth tend to prefer self-navigated and automated options, whereas CALD prefer options with greater provider engagement. Online STI service providers should consider how different service options may affect equitable uptake across the population and implications for addressing disparities in testing and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olivia Walsh
- From the Melbourne School of Population and Global Health
| | | | - Shanton Chang
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Jane S Hocking
- From the Melbourne School of Population and Global Health
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Nerlander L, Champezou L, Gomes Dias J, Aspelund G, Berlot L, Constantinou E, Díaz A, Epštein J, Fogarassy E, Hernando V, Hoffmann P, Igoe D, Klavs I, Pinto Leite P, Liitsola K, McIntyre A, Molnár Z, Olsen AO, Pires-Afonso Y, Putniņa R, Rudaitis K, Siakallis G, de Stoppelaar S, Suligoi B, Hannila-Handelberg T, Velicko I, Cabral Veríssimo V, Visser M, Wessman M, Mårdh O. Sharp increase in gonorrhoea notifications among young people, EU/EEA, July 2022 to June 2023. Euro Surveill 2024; 29:2400113. [PMID: 38456219 PMCID: PMC10986672 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2024.29.10.2400113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Gonorrhoea cases increased steeply in women aged 20 to 24 years across 15 EU/EEA countries in July to December 2022 and January to June 2023 with, respectively, 73% and 89% more cases reported than expected, based on historical data from 2015 to 2019. Smaller increases among men due to heterosexual transmission were observed in nine EU/EEA countries. Interventions to raise awareness among young people about sexually transmitted infection risks are needed, emphasising the benefit of safe sexual practices and testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Nerlander
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lydia Champezou
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joana Gomes Dias
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gudrun Aspelund
- Centre for Health Security and Communicable Disease Control, Directorate of Health, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Lina Berlot
- Communicable Diseases Centre, National Institute of Public Health, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Asunción Díaz
- National Centre of Epidemiology, CIBER in Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jevgenia Epštein
- Department of Communicable Diseases Epidemiology Health Board, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Erika Fogarassy
- National Center for Public Health and Pharmacy, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Victoria Hernando
- National Centre of Epidemiology, CIBER in Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patrick Hoffmann
- Health Directorate Luxembourg, Division de l'inspection sanitaire, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Derval Igoe
- HSE Public Health: National Health Protection Office, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Irena Klavs
- Communicable Diseases Centre, National Institute of Public Health, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Pedro Pinto Leite
- Directorate of Information and Analysis, Directorate-General of Health, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Kirsi Liitsola
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Angeline McIntyre
- HSE Public Health: National Health Protection Office, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Zsuzsanna Molnár
- National Center for Public Health and Pharmacy, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anne Olaug Olsen
- Department of Infection Control and Vaccine, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Yolanda Pires-Afonso
- Health Directorate Luxembourg, Division de l'inspection sanitaire, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Renāte Putniņa
- The Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Riga, Latvia
| | | | | | | | - Barbara Suligoi
- National AIDS Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Inga Velicko
- Public Health Agency of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vítor Cabral Veríssimo
- Public Health Unit Cascais, Western Lisbon Local Health Unit, Lisbon, Portugal
- Directorate of Information and Analysis, Directorate-General of Health, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maartje Visser
- Rijksinstituut voor Volksgezondheid en Milieu, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Wessman
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Otilia Mårdh
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden
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Bunker CB, Hawkins DA. The dermatologic aspects of sexually transmitted infections and HIV. Clin Dermatol 2024; 42:107. [PMID: 38151139 DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2023.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - David A Hawkins
- HIV/Sexual and Gender Health Department Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, UK
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Martin EG, Ansari B, Gift TL, Johnson BL, Collins D, Williams AM, Chesson HW. An Interactive Modeling Tool for Projecting the Health and Direct Medical Cost Impact of Changes in the Sexually Transmitted Diseases Prevention Program Budgets. J Public Health Manag Pract 2024; 30:221-230. [PMID: 38271104 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Estimating the return on investment for public health services, tailored to the state level, is critical for demonstrating their value and making resource allocation decisions. However, many health departments have limited staff capacity and expertise to conduct economic analyses in-house. PROGRAM We developed a user-friendly, interactive Excel-based spreadsheet model that health departments can use to estimate the impact of increases or decreases in sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention funding on the incidence and direct medical costs of chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and STI-attributable HIV infections. Users tailor results to their jurisdictions by entering the size of their population served; the number of annual STI diagnoses; their prior annual funding amount; and their anticipated new funding amount. The interface was developed using human-centered design principles, including focus groups with 15 model users to collect feedback on an earlier model version and a usability study on the prototype with 6 model users to finalize the interface. IMPLEMENTATION The STI Prevention Allocation Consequences Estimator ("SPACE Monkey 2.0") model will be publicly available as a free downloadable tool. EVALUATION In the usability testing of the prototype, participants provided overall positive feedback. They appreciated the clear interpretations, outcomes expressed as direct medical costs, functionalities to interact with the output and copy charts into external applications, visualization designs, and accessible information about the model's assumptions and limitations. Participants provided positive responses to a 10-item usability evaluation survey regarding their experiences with the prototype. DISCUSSION Modeling tools that synthesize literature-based estimates and are developed with human-centered design principles have the potential to make evidence-based estimates of budget changes widely accessible to health departments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika G Martin
- Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, New York (Dr Martin); Department of Organization, Work, and Leadership, Queen's Business School, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom (Dr Ansari); Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (Drs Gift, Williams, and Chesson and Mr Collins), and Division of Workforce Development, National Center for State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Public Health Infrastructure and Workforce (Ms Johnson), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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66
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Ende J. Sexually Transmitted Infections: Medicine in Its Fullest. Med Clin North Am 2024; 108:xv-xvi. [PMID: 38331489 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcna.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Jack Ende
- Perelman School of Medicine, of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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García de Lomas-Guerrero JMA, Jiménez-García N, Fernández-Sánchez F, Del Arco-Jiménez A, Prada-Pardal JL, de la Torre-Lima J. Missed opportunities in the early detection of HIV infection in patients with sexually transmitted infections: A real-life study. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin (Engl Ed) 2024; 42:146-148. [PMID: 38302371 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimce.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexually transmitted diseases such as cervicitis, proctitis and urethritis are associated with high rates of HIV infection. When these pathologies are suspected, HIV serology should be requested. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective study was performed during 2018 at the Hospital Costa del Sol (Marbella, Málaga, Spain). HIV serologies requested in patients who were asked for PCR for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae were reviewed. RESULTS A total of 1818 patients were evaluated, in which HIV serology was performed in 44.7%, of which 14 (1.7%) were positive. The remaining 55.3% were missed diagnostic opportunities. CONCLUSIONS C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae infections are associated with a high rate of occult HIV infection. The degree of suspicion of HIV in this population remains low and it is essential that it be reinforced in the presence of the possibility of infection by these pathologies.
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68
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Renfro KJ, Haderxhanaj LT, Loosier PS, Hogben M, Aral SO. Online Discussions of Sexually Transmitted Infections During COVID-19: Insights From the Social Media Platform Reddit. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:227-232. [PMID: 38039079 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, reported rates of chlamydia and gonorrhea dropped and remained low for several months of 2020 as compared with 2019. Additional data are needed to reveal causes of reported rate changes. Here, we analyze sexually transmitted infection (STI)-related conversations from the online-discussion platform Reddit to gain insight into the role of the pandemic on public experience of STIs in 2020. METHODS We collected data from Pushshift's and Reddit's application programming interfaces via programs coded in Python. We focused data collection on the "r/STD" subreddit. Collected submissions contained the term(s) "covid" and/or "coronavirus" and were submitted between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2020. We collected the title and text of each submission. We used a Latent Dirichlet Allocation algorithm to create a topic model of post content and complemented this approach with key term analysis and qualitative hand-coding. RESULTS Of the 288 posts collected, 148 were complete and included in analyses. Latent Dirichlet Allocation revealed 4 main topics in the collected posts: narration of sexual experiences, STI testing, crowdsourcing of visual STI diagnoses, and descriptions of STI-related pains and treatments. Hand-coding of COVID-19 mentions revealed pandemic-related anxieties about STI care seeking and experienced delays in and changes to quality of STI care received. CONCLUSIONS References to COVID-19 and associated mitigation efforts were woven into Reddit posts pertaining to several domains of STI care. These data support the notion that Reddit discussions may represent a valuable source of STI information, standing to corroborate and further contextualize STI survey and surveillance work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaytlin J Renfro
- From the Division of STD Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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Mussa A, Jarolimova J, Ryan R, Wynn A, Ashour D, Bassett IV, Philpotts LL, Freyne B, Morroni C, Dugdale CM. Syphilis Prevalence Among People Living With and Without HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:e1-e7. [PMID: 38180840 PMCID: PMC10922304 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syphilis is a curable sexually transmitted infection that, untreated, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In people living with HIV (PLWH), syphilis carries greater risks of disease progression. We estimated syphilis prevalence among PLWH in the general population in sub-Saharan Africa and compared the prevalence among PLWH and without HIV. METHODS We searched for studies published January 1, 2011, to March 28, 2022, reporting syphilis prevalence among PLWH in sub-Saharan Africa (PROSPERO No. CRD42020167328). We excluded studies in high-risk subpopulations. We estimated pooled syphilis prevalence among PLWH using random-effects modeling and compared the prevalence with people without HIV when included in the same study. We examined influences of region, study setting, and test type in subgroup analyses. RESULTS We identified 926 studies; 53 were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled syphilis prevalence among PLWH was 7.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.3%-8.5%). Prevalence differed by region: 3.1% (95% CI, 2.2%-4.0%) in Southern, 5.5% (95% CI, 2.3%-9.3%) in West/Central, and 10.5% (95% CI, 8.0%-13.1%) in Eastern Africa. Prevalence also differed by study setting: 13.8% (95% CI, 5.7%-23.0%) in sexual and reproductive health/sexually transmitted infection care, 8.7% (95% CI, 5.0%-12.8%) in HIV care, 7.1% (95% CI, 5.8%-8.5%) in antenatal care, and 3.8% (95% CI, 2.0%-5.8%) in household/community-based settings. Syphilis prevalence was higher among PLWH than without HIV (relative risk, 3.5; 95% CI, 2.8-4.5). CONCLUSIONS Syphilis is highly prevalent among PLWH in sub-Saharan Africa and is more common among PLWH than without HIV. Integration of syphilis screening and management into HIV care may reduce complications of HIV-syphilis coinfection among PLWH in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamirah Mussa
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jana Jarolimova
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca Ryan
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Adrianne Wynn
- University of California, San Diego; Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health; La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Dina Ashour
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ingrid V Bassett
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lisa L Philpotts
- Treadwell Library, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bridget Freyne
- Department of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Children’s Health Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Women and Children’s Health, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Paediatrics, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Malawi
| | - Chelsea Morroni
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Caitlin M Dugdale
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Vargas SE, Tao J, Almonte AA, Ramirez L, Chan PA. Increasing Incidence of Gonorrhea at an Urban STI Clinic in the United States. R I Med J (2013) 2024; 107:26-31. [PMID: 38412351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Medical record data was extracted from a sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic in Providence, Rhode Island to characterize trends in Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) infection and explore risk factors. Of 16,601 clinical encounters, 6% (n=991) tested GC positive: 5.28 GC case rate (per 100 encounters) in the first two years of data collection (2015-2016) and 7.04 in the last two years (2020-2021). Analysis suggested a single linear trend line over time (p<.05). Overall, in more recent years, patients were older and more like to identify as male, Black, and Hispanic/Latino, as well as to have reported a previous STI, current symptoms, and specific risk behaviors. GC-positive patients in 2020-2021 were older and more like to identify as female and Black compared to 2015-2016. Lower rates of condom use were especially salient among female patients. These findings may reflect GC trends in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara E Vargas
- Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI; Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Jun Tao
- Infectious Disease, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, 02906; Department of Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | | | - Leslie Ramirez
- Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI
| | - Philip A Chan
- Infectious Disease, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI; Department of Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
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71
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Tuddenham S. Sexually Transmitted Infections. Med Clin North Am 2024; 108:xvii-xix. [PMID: 38331490 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcna.2023.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Tuddenham
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University, 5200 Eastern Avenue, MFL Center Tower, Suite 381, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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72
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Michalow J, Jahn A, Cori A, Boily MC, Chimpandule T, Mbiriyawanda S, Ozituosauka W, Nyirenda R, Imai-Eaton JW. Burden and Trends of Symptomatic Sexually Transmitted Infections in Malawi From 2000 to 2021: Comparative Analysis of Survey and Case Report Data. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:206-213. [PMID: 38412467 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In settings without etiologic testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), programs rely on STI symptom data to inform priorities. To evaluate whether self-reported STI symptoms in household surveys consistently represent the STI burden, we compared symptomatic infection rates between survey self-reporting and health facility case reporting in Malawi. METHODS We analyzed self-reported symptoms and treatment seeking in the past year among sexually active adults from 4 Malawi Demographic and Health Surveys between 2000 and 2015. Bayesian mixed-effects models were used to estimate temporal trends, spatial variation, and sociodemographic determinants. Survey reporting was compared with health facility syndromic diagnoses between 2014 and 2021. RESULTS In surveys, 11.0% (95% confidence interval, 10.7%-11.4%) of adults reported STI or STI-related symptoms in the last year, of whom 54.2% (52.8%-55.7%) sought treatment. In facilities, the mean annual symptomatic case diagnosis rate was 3.3%. Survey-reported treatment in the last year was 3.8% (95% credible interval, 2.3%-6.1%) for genital ulcer, 3.8% (2.0%-6.7%) for vaginal discharge, and 2.6% (1.2%-4.7%) for urethral discharge. Mean annual diagnosis rates at facilities were 0.5% for genital ulcer, 2.2% for vaginal discharge, and 2.0% for urethral discharge. Both data sources indicated a higher burden of symptoms among women, individuals older than 25 years, and those in Southern Malawi. CONCLUSIONS Survey and facility case reports indicated similar spatial and demographic patterns of STI symptom burden and care seeking, but implied large differences in the magnitude and relative burden of symptoms, particularly genital ulcer, which could affect program priorities. Targeted etiologic surveillance would improve interpretation of these data to enable more comprehensive STI surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Michalow
- From the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Anne Cori
- From the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marie-Claude Boily
- From the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Rose Nyirenda
- Malawi Department of HIV, STI & Viral Hepatitis, Ministry of Health
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73
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Bunting SR, Wang G, Yu R, Hazra A. Availability of Testing for Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV in U.S. Outpatient Mental Healthcare Settings. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1029-1038. [PMID: 37882953 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04211-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
People with mental illnesses experience higher incidence of sexually transmitted illnesses (STIs) and HIV, and estimates show fewer than 50% have received testing. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of STI/HIV testing among United States outpatient mental healthcare service providers. Data from the National Mental Health Services Survey (NMHSS) was used to determine the rates of STI and HIV testing amongst 9,267 outpatient mental healthcare service providers in the U.S. Regression analyses were used to assess whether the likelihood a service provider offered STI or HIV testing was associated with service provider characteristics (facility type, services offered, accepted payments) and state-level incidence of STIs and HIV. We found 7.79% and 6.64% of outpatient mental healthcare service providers provided STI and HIV testing, respectively, with lowest rates in community mental health centers and partial hospitalization facilities. Providing dual-diagnosis for severe mental illness and substance use disorders was an independent predictor of STI testing (aOR = 2.17, [1.72-2.75] and HIV testing (aOR = 2.61, [2.07-3.30]. Higher state-level incidence of STIs and HIV were associated with higher rates of STI testing (β = 0.28, p = .047) and HIV testing (β = 0.48, p < .001). Preventing STIs and HIV among patients living with mental illness is a key priority of multiple national initiatives. Despite this, fewer than 10% of outpatient mental healthcare service providers responding to the NMHSS offered STI and HIV testing. Existing service co-delivery models may be one promising method for implementing STI/HIV testing within outpatient mental health settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel R Bunting
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Gary Wang
- Pritzker School of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Roger Yu
- Pritzker School of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Aniruddha Hazra
- Section of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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74
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Eidelberg A, Axelrad J, Chedid V, Ballou S, Cheifetz A, Rabinowitz LG. Sexual Health in Sexual and Gender Minority Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Dig Dis Sci 2024; 69:743-748. [PMID: 38267727 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-023-08253-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, legislation targeting the sexual and gender minority (SGM) community has been passed at an increasingly alarming rate, affecting access to safe and effective gender-affirming care and forcing many SGM patients, including those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), to withhold their identities and health concerns. Additionally, SGM patients with IBD may have unique health considerations that have not yet been well-studied OBJECTIVE: This article aims to explore the intersection of IBD and sexual health in patients who identify as SGM and to identify limitations for gastroenterologists in caring for SGM patients. The article also aims to provide suggestions for improvement in SGM-competent care within gastroenterology METHODS: A thorough literature review was conducted regarding sexual health and the SGM community with IBD. This included a review of surgical considerations in SGM patients, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and prevention, and sexual dysfunction RESULTS: Overall, little is known about the impact of IBD on patients who identify as sexual and gender minorities. Surgery, medications, and STIs continue to be a concern in the SGM community with IBD and these areas represent opportunities to improve SGM-competent IBD care. Additionally, implementation of an SGM-focused curriculum is urgently needed in medical education to improve provider knowledge and care for this unique group of patients CONCLUSIONS: Patients with IBD who identify as SGM experience challenges that are not well described in prior literature. More research is needed and is actively being pursued to guide provider awareness and improve sexual health for this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Eidelberg
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Rabb 4, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | | | | | - Sarah Ballou
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Rabb 4, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Adam Cheifetz
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Rabb 4, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Loren G Rabinowitz
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Rabb 4, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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Grosso A, Bowring AL, Njindam IM, Decker MR, Lyons C, Rao A, Tamoufe U, Fako GH, Fouda G, Levitt D, Turpin G, Billong SC, Zoung-Kanyi Bissek AC, Njoya O, Baral S. Sexually Transmitted Infection Risks and Symptoms Heightened Among Female Sex Workers who Started Selling Sex Before the Age of 18 in Five Cities in Cameroon. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:898-906. [PMID: 37843686 PMCID: PMC10896857 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04196-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Many adolescents under 18 years old who sell sex are at elevated risk for sexually transmitted infection (STI) acquisition, which may persist into adulthood. There has been limited study of the burden of the risks and vulnerabilities among women who started selling sex as adolescents across Sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, a Adult female sex workers (FSW) recruited through respondent-driven sampling in five cities in Cameroon from December 2015 to October 2016 completed a questionnaire and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis testing. Multivariable logistic regression analysis controlling for age was used to identify factors associated with reporting selling sex before age 18. Selling sex before age 18 was reported by 11.5% (256/2,220) of FSW. Initiation of selling sex as an adolescent was positively associated with experiencing dysuria (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]:1.50, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.08-2.10) or genital warts (aOR:1.78, 95% CI:1.08-2.94) and negatively associated with prior recent testing for HIV (aOR:0.71, 95% CI:0.53-0.96) or STIs (aOR:0.65, 95% CI:0.44-0.96). Consistent condom use with clients was negatively associated with early initiation of selling sex (aOR:0.58, 95% CI:0.42-0.80), while experience of recent sexual violence was positively associated with early initiation (aOR:1.74, 95% CI:1.15-2.63). There were no independent significant differences in HIV (24.5%) or syphilis (8.3%) prevalence. Given the limited use of HIV and STI testing services by women who sold sex as adolescents, the prevalence of forced sex, condomless sex, and STI symptoms were high. Programs serving FSW should more vigorously aim to serve adolescents and adults who began selling sex early.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Grosso
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, Rutgers University, 112 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA.
| | - Anna L Bowring
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N Wolfe , MD, Baltimore, 21205, USA
- Burnet Institute, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | | | - Michele R Decker
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N Wolfe St Baltimore, MD, Baltimore, 21205, USA
| | - Carrie Lyons
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N Wolfe , MD, Baltimore, 21205, USA
| | - Amrita Rao
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N Wolfe , MD, Baltimore, 21205, USA
| | - Ubald Tamoufe
- Metabiota, Avenue Mvog-Fouda Ada, Av 1.085, Carrefour Intendance BP, Yaoundé, 15939, Cameroon
| | - Guy H Fako
- Care and Health Program, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Ghislaine Fouda
- CARE Cameroon, Villa La Rose (3è étage, Av. Churchill, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Daniel Levitt
- CARE USA, 115 Broadway, 5th floor, New York, NY, 10006, USA
- FHI 360, New York, United States
| | - Gnilane Turpin
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N Wolfe , MD, Baltimore, 21205, USA
| | - Serge C Billong
- Groupe Technique Central, CNLS, Rue Henri Dunant, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Oudou Njoya
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yaoundé University Hospital Center, Joseph Tchooungui Akoa, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N Wolfe , MD, Baltimore, 21205, USA
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76
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Adler M. Sexually transmitted infections from the 20th to the 21st century. Clin Dermatol 2024; 42:108-109. [PMID: 38151138 DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Adler
- Genitourinary Medicine/Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Royal Free and University College Medical School, London, UK.
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77
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von Schreeb S, Pedersen SK, Christensen H, Jørgsensen KM, Harritshøj LH, Hertz FB, Ahlström MG, Lebech AM, Lunding S, Nielsen LN, Gerstoft J, Kronborg G, Engsig FN. Questioning risk compensation: pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men, capital region of Denmark, 2019 to 2022. Euro Surveill 2024; 29:2300451. [PMID: 38551099 PMCID: PMC10979528 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2024.29.13.2300451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BackgroundPre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) effectively prevents HIV, but its association with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has raised concerns about risk compensation, potentially impacting the expansion of PrEP programmes.AimWe examined the relationship between PrEP and the incidence of chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis.MethodsIn this prospective cohort study, we compared STI rates before and after PrEP initiation among users in the capital region of Denmark (2019-2022), calculating incidence rate ratios adjusted for age and testing frequency (aIRR). To pinpoint when increases began, we plotted weekly STI rates, adjusting the timeline to correspond with PrEP initiation.ResultsThe study included 1,326 PrEP users with a median age of 35 years. The STI incidence rate per 100,000 person-years rose from 35.3 before to 81.2 after PrEP start, with an aIRR of 1.35 (95% CI: 1.18-1.56). Notably, this increase preceded PrEP initiation by 10-20 weeks. Specific aIRR for chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis were 1.23 (95% CI: 1.03-1.48), 1.24 (95% CI: 1.04-1.47) and 1.15 (95% CI: 0.76-1.72), respectively. In subanalyses for anatomical sites aIRR was 1.26 (95% CI: 1.01-1.56) for rectal chlamydia and 0.66 (95% CI: 0.45-0.96) for genital gonorrhoea.ConclusionWe found a 35% increase in STI incidence associated with PrEP use. It started before PrEP initiation, challenging the assumption that PrEP leads to risk compensation. Instead, the data suggest that individuals seek PrEP during periods of heightened sexual risk-taking. Consequently, PrEP programmes should include sexual health consultations, STI testing, treatment and prevention strategies to prevent HIV and improve sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian von Schreeb
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susanne Kriegel Pedersen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Christensen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Lene Holm Harritshøj
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frederik Boetius Hertz
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Magnus Glindvad Ahlström
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne-Mette Lebech
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Suzanne Lunding
- Department of Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Nørregaard Nielsen
- Department of Pulmonary and Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - North Zealand Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jan Gerstoft
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gitte Kronborg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frederik N Engsig
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
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78
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Heath G, Kaur K, Farrow C, Ross JDC, Clarke R. Barriers to engagement with testing for sexually transmitted infections within a UK-based young adult Black Caribbean community: a qualitative study. Sex Health 2024; 21:SH23166. [PMID: 38432685 DOI: 10.1071/sh23166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Black Caribbean population have a disproportionately high burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) compared with other ethnic groups. The aim of this study was to explore barriers to engagement with STI testing within a UK-based young adult Black Caribbean community. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 14 young adults from the Black Caribbean community and six sexual healthcare professionals. Data were analysed thematically. A focus group of five young adults was conducted to refine themes. RESULTS Data analysis generated three themes: (1) culturally embedded stigma; (2) historically embedded mistrust; and (3) lack of knowledge. Perceived as 'dirty', particularly for females, infection with STIs was stigmatised by religious conceptions of 'purity' and shame. This presented challenges in terms of cultural acceptability of talking about STI testing with partners, friends, and family. Legacies of colonialism, medical racism and malpractice compromised young people's trust in medical intervention and confidentiality of data management. A lack of knowledge related to STIs and their treatment, and in how to access and perform STI tests further served as a barrier. Culturally tailored interventions targeting these factors and delivered by radio, podcasts and social media were highlighted as having potential to improve engagement with STI testing. DISCUSSION Engagement with STI testing by young adults from the Black Caribbean community is impacted by historically and culturally embedded teachings, practices and beliefs inherited through generations. Targeting these factors within culturally tailored interventions may be effective for increasing STI-testing, and thus reducing rates of STI-infection in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Heath
- School of Psychology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kiranpal Kaur
- School of Psychology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Claire Farrow
- School of Psychology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jonathan D C Ross
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rebecca Clarke
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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79
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Siegel K, Cabán M, Brown-Bradley CJ, Schrimshaw EW. Condomless Anal Sex Between Male Sex Workers and Clients in the Age of Hookup Apps. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1077-1092. [PMID: 38036795 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04216-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Among men who have sex with men (MSM), those who also engage in the exchange of sex for money, drugs, shelter or other material goods (i.e., male sex workers-MSWs) have been found to have higher rates of condomless anal sex (CAS), HIV, and STIs than MSM who do not engage in exchange sex. To gain a better understanding of the factors that influence MSWs' engagement in CAS with male clients, we analyzed qualitative interview data from a diverse sample of 141 MSWs from 8 U.S. cities who met clients primarily through hookup or dating apps/websites and who reported having condomless anal sex with at least one of their exchange sex partners in the prior three months. While high client demand and financial incentives were the most frequently mentioned reasons for engaging in CAS with clients, other factors including drug and alcohol use, attraction to the client, the heat of the moment, concerns about sexual performance, and reliance on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) were also important. Participants who engaged in CAS generally felt that due to client characteristics or mitigating steps they had taken themselves, their chance of acquiring HIV/STIs was acceptably low. Hookup or dating apps/websites have provided an additional and increasingly popular venue for exchange sex to be arranged. These platforms also offer an opportunity for HIV/STI prevention through interventions and tailored messages delivered through these venues that address the motivations, misconceptions and/or situational factors that may lead to CAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolynn Siegel
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA.
| | - María Cabán
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Courtney J Brown-Bradley
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eric W Schrimshaw
- Department of Population Health Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
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80
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Elder H, Platt L, Leach D, Sheetoh C, Ramirez VM, Molotnikov L, Hernandez B, Roosevelt K, Hsu KK. Factors Associated With Delays in Presentation and Treatment of Gonorrhea, Massachusetts 2015-2019. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:146-155. [PMID: 38133572 PMCID: PMC10922616 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rates of gonorrhea are increasing across the United States. Understanding and addressing contributing factors associated with longer time to diagnosis and treatment may shorten the duration of infectiousness, which in turn may limit transmission. METHODS We used Massachusetts data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance Network collected between July 2015 and September 2019, along with routinely reported surveillance data, to assess time from gonorrhea symptom onset to presentation to care, and time from presentation to care to receipt of treatment. Factors associated with longer time to presentation (TTP) and time to treatment (TTT) were assessed using Cox proportional hazard models with a constant time variable. RESULTS Among symptomatic patients (n = 672), 31% did not receive medical care within 7 days of symptom onset. Longer TTP was associated with younger age, female gender, reporting cost as a barrier to care, and provider report of proctitis. Among patients with symptoms and/or known contact to gonorrhea (n = 827), 42% did not receive presumptive treatment. Longer TTT was associated with female gender, non-Hispanic other race/ethnicity, and clinics with less gonorrhea treatment experience. Among asymptomatic patients without known exposure to STI (n = 235), 26% did not receive treatment within 7 days. Longer TTT was associated with sexually transmitted disease clinic/family planning/reproductive health clinics and a test turnaround time of ≥3 days. CONCLUSIONS Delays in presentation to care and receipt of treatment for gonorrhea are common. Factors associated with longer TTP and TTT highlight multiple opportunities for reducing the infectious period of patients with gonorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Elder
- Division of STD Prevention, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Science, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Jamaica Plain, MA
| | - Laura Platt
- Division of STD Prevention, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Science, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Jamaica Plain, MA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Dylan Leach
- Division of STD Prevention, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Science, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Jamaica Plain, MA
| | - Cordelia Sheetoh
- Division of STD Prevention, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Science, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Jamaica Plain, MA
| | - Victor M Ramirez
- Division of STD Prevention, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Science, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Jamaica Plain, MA
| | - Lauren Molotnikov
- Division of STD Prevention, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Science, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Jamaica Plain, MA
| | - Brenda Hernandez
- Division of STD Prevention, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Science, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Jamaica Plain, MA
| | - Kathleen Roosevelt
- Division of STD Prevention, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Science, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Jamaica Plain, MA
| | - Katherine K. Hsu
- Division of STD Prevention, Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Science, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Jamaica Plain, MA
- Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA
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81
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Bunting SR, Hunt B, Johnson AK, Hazra A, Nunez-Garcia A, Glick N. Examination of Incidence of Sexually Transmitted Infections in the Ending the HIV Epidemic Priority Counties of the United States, 2005-2019. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:139-145. [PMID: 38100791 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has been increasing in the United States, and this trend has continued alongside expanding/changing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention strategies, moving from reliance solely on behavioral interventions like condoms to biomedical methods like oral and injectable antiretroviral preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). In 2019, the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative was released to prioritize resource allocation to the 50 jurisdictions in the United States with the highest HIV incidence, providing an opportunity to monitor STI incidence in a national group of discrete, geographic units and identify trends and differences across jurisdictions. OBJECTIVES AND DESIGN Using existing data from the US CDC and Census Bureau, a retrospective analysis was conducted to examine the incidence of STIs in 49 of the 50 EHE priority counties between 2005 and 2019. This timeframe was divided into 2 periods representing a before and after entry into the biomedical era of HIV prevention: P1 (2005-2011) and P2 (2012-2019). KEY RESULTS A total of 49 EHE counties were included in this analysis, representing 27.4% of the total US population. Entry into the biomedical HIV prevention era was associated with an increase in STI incidence in 28 EHE counties and a decrease in 14 EHE counties. The greatest percent increase in total STI incidence was in the District of Columbia (+12.1%; incidence rate ratio = 1.121 [1.115, 1.127]; P < 0.001) and the greatest percent decrease was identified in Orleans Parish, LA (-8.7%; incidence rate ratio = 0.913 [0.908, 0.919]; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Rising STI rates in the biomedical era of HIV prevention represent missed opportunities for comprehensive sexual and preventive healthcare. County-level data provide actionable insight for reducing STI incidence. The EHE counties that have experienced decreases in STI incidence while being in the biomedical era may provide models of best practice, which may be scaled in other jurisdictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel R Bunting
- From the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | | | | | - Aniruddha Hazra
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Nancy Glick
- Sinai Infectious Disease Center, Sinai Health System, Chicago, IL
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Sinka K. The global burden of sexually transmitted infections. Clin Dermatol 2024; 42:110-118. [PMID: 38142791 DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the global burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is fundamental to being able to address and control these infections and the health harms they cause. The World Health Organization has renewed its global health sector strategy for the prevention and control of STIs. Reducing STIs remains an integral part of HIV prevention and of sexual and reproductive health programs. Data to measure and describe the global burden continue to improve, with systematic reviews and modeling providing global and regional data for the major STIs. Although substantial gaps remain, as many countries have limited data, the measures available demonstrate the scale of the problem for the main curable STIs, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and trichomoniasis; the most common viral STIs, human papillomavirus and genital herpes; the interrelation between STIs and HIV; and the substantially unequal burden of these infections globally and among key populations. Regional and global trends in these infections are affected by population changes; the impact and availability of interventions, such as vaccination; changing behaviors that alter the dynamics of STI transmission; and the role of international travel in promulgating STIs in an increasingly interconnected world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy Sinka
- STI Section, Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI, and HIV Division, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom.
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83
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Choi J, Choi JB, Bae S, Lee CH, Shin YS, You D, Lee JY, Lee SJ, Lee KW. 2023 Korean sexually transmitted infections guidelines for non-gonococcal bacterial infection (chlamydia, syphilis, etc.) by the Korean Association of Urogenital Tract Infection and Inflammation. Investig Clin Urol 2024; 65:115-123. [PMID: 38454820 PMCID: PMC10925736 DOI: 10.4111/icu.20230322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-gonococcal sexually transmitted infections (STIs) include chlamydia, syphilis, and chancroids. Chlamydia is the most common STI caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and is mainly transmitted through sexual intercourse or vertical transmission at birth. Although symptoms are mostly absent or mild, untreated chlamydial infections in females can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility due to the narrowing of fallopian tubes. Syphilis is caused by Treponema pallidum and is divided into phase I, phase II, latent syphilis, and phase III. The incidence of syphilis, including congenital syphilis, has significantly increased in the United States in recent years. The chronic status of this disease can significantly increase morbidity and potentially affect almost all body organs, which, in rare cases, can lead to death. Additionally, untreated maternal syphilis can lead to fetal death and fatal congenital infections in newborns. Chancroid is an STI caused by Haemophilus ducreyi, and its prevalence is gradually decreasing in Korea and worldwide. The symptoms include shallow genital ulcers with suppurative granulomatous inflammation and tender inguinal lymphadenopathy. Chancroids can be differentiated from syphilitic chancres based on their appearance. In contrast to painless chancres, chancroids are painful. Ureaplasma urealyticum, Ureaplasma parvum, and Mycoplasma hominis are considered symbiotic bacteria. Infections caused by these bacteria are usually not considered STIs and do not require treatment unless they are suspected of being associated with infertility. This article presents the 2023 Korean STI guidelines for non-gonococcal bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joongwon Choi
- Department of Urology, Chung-Ang University Gwangmyeong Hospital, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Gwangmyeong, Korea
| | - Jin Bong Choi
- Department of Urology, Bucheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sangrak Bae
- Department of Urology, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chan Ho Lee
- Department of Urology, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Yu Seob Shin
- Department of Urology, Jeonbuk National University and Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute and Medical Device Clinical Trial Center of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Dalsan You
- Department of Urology, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joo Yong Lee
- Department of Urology, Severance Hospital, Urological Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung-Ju Lee
- Department of Urology, St. Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyu Won Lee
- Department of Urology, Eunpyeong St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
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Dagnew Z, Mistir L, Abebe N, Alemayehu M, Tegegne E. Sexual partner referral and associated factors among patients with sexually transmitted disease in Jabi Tehnan district and Finote Selam town. Int J STD AIDS 2024; 35:287-295. [PMID: 37724040 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231196592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Partner referral (or contact tracing) is an essential approach for preventing sexually transmitted infections. Even though this approach has been used in Ethiopia, there is a scarcity of evidence in Ethiopia particularly in this study area. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 397 patients with curable sexually transmitted diseases. Factors associated to the practice of sexual partner referral were explored where variables having a p-value of <0.05 in multivariable analysis were considered statistically significant. RESULT Referrals for sexual partners were found to be 42.4% in this study (95% CI: 35.3, 45.3). Not expecting the end of the relationship among regular partnerships (AOR: 4.8; 95% CI: 1.9, 12.4), perceived risk of reinfection (AOR: 3.0; 95% CI: 1.8, 5.3), perceived self-efficacy (AOR: 3.8; 95% CI: 2.4, 6.3), intention to refer partners (AOR: 3.7; 95% CI: 2.0, 6.4), and knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (AOR: 3.0; 95% CI: 1.8, 5.0) were significantly associated with sexual partner referral. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that sexual partner referral was low. Perceived risks of reinfection, perceived self-efficacy, anticipating the end of a relationship, intention to refer partners, and knowledge of sexually transmitted infections were significant predictors of sexual partner referral. Intervention endeavors need to consider factors pointed out in this study to improve sexual partner referral.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zewdu Dagnew
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Limenih Mistir
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Nurlign Abebe
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Mulunesh Alemayehu
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Eniyew Tegegne
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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Hart TA, Noor SW, Tavangar F, Zahran A, Skakoon-Sparling S, Tan DHS, Lambert G, Grace D, Lachowsky N, Sang JM, Palma PA, Zhang T, Dvorakova M, Cox J, Moore DM. Human Immunodeficiency Virus Treatment Attitudes and Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Gay and Bisexual Men. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:178-185. [PMID: 38412464 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Positive attitudes toward human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment, such as reduced concern about HIV transmissibility, are associated with sexual behaviors that may increase the risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM). We examined associations between HIV treatment attitudes and bacterial STI diagnoses among GBM in Canada's three largest cities. METHODS We fit a structural equation model between HIV treatment attitudes and bacterial STI diagnoses via sexual behaviors in the Engage study's baseline data. We estimated direct and indirect paths between scores on HIV treatment attitudes and STIs via number of male anal sex partners, condomless anal sex, and oral sex. We conducted sub-analyses with participants stratified by HIV serostatus. RESULTS Among 2449 GBM recruited in 2017 to 2019, there was a direct association between HIV treatment attitudes and current STI diagnoses (β = 0.13; 95% CI, 0.07-0.19; P < 0.001). The mediated model revealed a positive total indirect effect through 2 pathways: (1) engaging in condomless anal sex and (2) number of male anal sex partners and condomless anal sex. These 2 indirect pathways remained in the stratified mediation models for both HIV negative GBM and for GBM living with HIV. CONCLUSIONS The association between HIV treatment attitudes and diagnosed STIs is mediated through a higher number of male anal sex partners and condomless anal sex. The results highlight the importance of providers educating patients when providing effective STI counseling, testing, and prevention for GBM about how accurate HIV treatment attitudes may inadvertently be associated with the bacterial STI epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Adhm Zahran
- From the Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Grace
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Jordan M Sang
- Community-Based Research Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Paolo A Palma
- From the Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Terri Zhang
- From the Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Milada Dvorakova
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
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86
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Baltes V, de Boissieu P, Champenois K, Luan L, Seng R, Essat A, Novelli S, Spire B, Molina J, Goujard C, Meyer L. Sexual behaviour and STIs among MSM living with HIV in the PrEP era: the French ANRS PRIMO cohort study. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26226. [PMID: 38462760 PMCID: PMC10935706 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In a context of declining condom use and high sexually transmitted infection (STI) incidence, the diffusion of "treatment as prevention" (Tasp) and more recently pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) may have changed the sexual behaviour of newly diagnosed men who have sex with men (MSM) with HIV. METHODS Six hundred and nine MSM were enrolled and followed annually between 2014 and 2021 in the ANRS PRIMO Cohort (ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT03148964) from the time of HIV seroconversion. We studied changes over calendar time in sexual behaviour before and after HIV diagnosis. Factors associated with inconsistent condom use (ICU) after HIV diagnosis, PrEP use by partner(s) and bacterial STI acquisition were studied in random-effects models. RESULTS In the 6 months preceding HIV diagnosis, the number of sexual partners decreased from a median of 10 (IQR: 4-19) in 2014 to 6 (3-11) in 2021. After HIV diagnosis, ICU increased from 57.1% (16/28) of visits in 2014 up to 84.2% (229/272) in 2020-2021. Up to 25% (63/229) of MSM with HIV in recent years reported the use of PrEP by their partner(s) as the reason for ICU; these MSM were less frequently in a stable relationship, had a higher number of sexual partners and higher education level than those who did not report the use of PrEP by their partner(s). STI incidence after HIV diagnosis increased between 2014 and 2016 and remained high afterwards. STI risk was no longer associated with PrEP use by partners after adjustment for the number of partners and calendar period. ICU, age below 35 years, not being in a stable relationship, higher number of sexual partners were independently associated with an increased risk of STI. CONCLUSIONS Implementation of TasP and more recently PrEP has led to major changes in the sexual behaviour of MSM with HIV. ICU has become overwhelmingly prevalent, PrEP use by the partner increasingly being the reported reason for ICU, behind TasP, which remains the main reason. Characteristics of MSM at the time of diagnosis of HIV have changed, with fewer number of sexual partners today than in 2014, which must lead to broaden the indications for PrEP prescription. STIs incidence remains high in MSM with HIV and requires improvements in screening and prevention methods such as pre- or post-exposition antibiotics or vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Baltes
- Inserm, CESP U1018Le Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- Université Paris SaclayFaculté de médecineLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
| | - Paul de Boissieu
- Inserm, CESP U1018Le Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- AP‐HP Epidémiologie et Santé publiqueHôpital BicêtreLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
| | - Karen Champenois
- Université de Paris Cité et Université Sorbonne Paris NordInserm, IAMEParisFrance
| | - Louise Luan
- Inserm, CESP U1018Le Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- AP‐HP Epidémiologie et Santé publiqueHôpital BicêtreLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
| | - Rémonie Seng
- Inserm, CESP U1018Le Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- Université Paris SaclayFaculté de médecineLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- AP‐HP Epidémiologie et Santé publiqueHôpital BicêtreLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
| | - Asma Essat
- Inserm, CESP U1018Le Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- Université Paris SaclayFaculté de médecineLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- AP‐HP Epidémiologie et Santé publiqueHôpital BicêtreLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
| | - Sophie Novelli
- Inserm, CESP U1018Le Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- Université Paris SaclayFaculté de médecineLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
| | - Bruno Spire
- Aix Marseille UnivInserm, IRD, SESSTIM, ISSPAMMarseilleFrance
| | - Jean‐Michel Molina
- AP‐HP Service de maladies infectieusesHôpital Saint‐LouisParisFrance
- Université Paris CitéParisFrance
| | - Cécile Goujard
- Inserm, CESP U1018Le Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- Université Paris SaclayFaculté de médecineLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- AP‐HP Service de médecine interneHôpital BicêtreLe Kremlin BicêtreFrance
| | - Laurence Meyer
- Inserm, CESP U1018Le Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- Université Paris SaclayFaculté de médecineLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
- AP‐HP Epidémiologie et Santé publiqueHôpital BicêtreLe Kremlin‐BicêtreFrance
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87
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Mukherjee G, Zhang C, Kandaswamy S, Gooding H, Orenstein E. Current Inpatient Screening Practices for Sexual History and STIs: An Opportunity to Seize. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2024; 63:350-356. [PMID: 37424327 DOI: 10.1177/00099228231183501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends utilizing hospitalizations as an opportunity to provide sexual health screenings for adolescents. This study aimed to describe the current practice of sexual history documentation (SHxD) and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing among adolescents admitted to a pediatric hospital medicine service. Retrospective cross-sectional study of adolescents (14-19 years old) admitted to the PHM service from 2017-2019 was performed at an academic children's health system. Patient (demographics, history of complex chronic condition, and insurance), hospitalization (length of stay, diagnosis, STI tests ordered/results), and physician (level of training and gender) characteristics were extracted for each encounter. A natural language processing algorithm identified the presence of SHxD. Univariate analysis and multivariable analysis were performed to detect factors associated with SHxD and STI screening. The prevalence of STIs was calculated for those who were tested. Out of 2242 encounters, SHxD and STI testing rates were 40.9% and 17.2%, respectively. Patient gender, race, lack of complex chronic condition, and resident involvement were predictive of SHxD and STI testing. SHxD increased the odds of STI testing significantly (OR 5.06, CI 3.90-6.58). Among those who were tested, the prevalence of STIs was highest for chlamydia (37/329, 11.2%). Overall, sexual health screening rates remain low in the hospital setting and future improvement initiatives are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gargi Mukherjee
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University/Children's Healthcare of Atlanta-Egleston Hospital, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University/Children's Healthcare of Atlanta-Egleston Hospital, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Swaminathan Kandaswamy
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University/Children's Healthcare of Atlanta-Egleston Hospital, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Holly Gooding
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University/Children's Healthcare of Atlanta-Egleston Hospital, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University/Grady Memorial Hospital, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Evan Orenstein
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University/Children's Healthcare of Atlanta-Egleston Hospital, Atlanta, GA, USA
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88
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Badash A, Grennan D, Albrecht J. Sexually transmitted diseases and HIV in transgender patients. Clin Dermatol 2024; 42:180-191. [PMID: 38142789 DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2023.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Almog Badash
- University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Dara Grennan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, J.H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joerg Albrecht
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, J.H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, Division of Dermatology, Rush Medical College, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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89
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Orellana CB, Lyerla J, Martin A, Milner F. Sexually transmitted infections and dating app use. Math Biosci Eng 2024; 21:3999-4035. [PMID: 38549316 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2024177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is rising sharply in the United States. Between 2014 and 2019, incidence among men and women has increased by 62.8% and 21.4%, respectively, with an estimated 68 million Americans contracting an STI in 2018.a Some human behaviors impacting the expanding STI epidemic are unprotected sex and multiple sexual partners.b Increasing dating app usage has been postulated as a driver for increases in the numbers of people engaging in these behaviors. Using the proposed model, it is estimated that both STI incidence and prevalence for females and males have increased annually by 9%-15% between 2015 and 2019 due to dating apps usage, and that STI incidence and prevalence will continue to increase in the future. The model is also used to assess the possible benefit of in-app prevention campaigns.ahttps://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom/fact-sheets/std/STI-Incidence-Prevalence-Cost-Factsheet.htmbA. N. Sawyer, E. R. Smith, and E. G. Benotsch. Dating application use and sexual risk behavior among young adults. Sexuality Research and Social Policy, 15:183-191, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Bustamante Orellana
- Simon A. Levin Mathematical, Computational and Modeling Sciences Center, Arizona State University, Engineering Center, A Wing, AZ 85287-3901, USA
| | - Jordan Lyerla
- Department of Biology, Univeristy of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Aaron Martin
- Simon A. Levin Mathematical, Computational and Modeling Sciences Center, Arizona State University, Engineering Center, A Wing, AZ 85287-3901, USA
| | - Fabio Milner
- Simon A. Levin Mathematical, Computational and Modeling Sciences Center, Arizona State University, Engineering Center, A Wing, AZ 85287-3901, USA
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90
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Freese J, Segura ER, Gutierrez J, Lake JE, Cabello R, Clark JL, Blair C. Sexual network characteristics and partnership types among men who have sex with men diagnosed with syphilis, gonorrhoea and/or chlamydia in Lima, Peru. Sex Transm Infect 2024; 100:84-90. [PMID: 38124224 PMCID: PMC10922481 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2023-055910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sexual networks are known to structure sexually transmitted infection (STI) transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM). We sought to estimate the risks of STI diagnosis for various partnership types within these networks. METHODS Our cross-sectional survey analysed data from 1376 MSM screened for a partner management intervention in Lima, Peru. Participants were tested for HIV, syphilis, gonorrhoea (NG) and chlamydia (CT) and completed surveys on their demographics, sexual identity/role, HIV status, partnership types and sexual network from the prior 90 days. χ2 and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests compared participants without an STI to those diagnosed with (1) syphilis, (2) NG and/or CT (NG/CT) and (3) syphilis and NG/CT coinfection (coinfection). RESULTS 40.8% (n=561/1376) of participants were diagnosed with an STI (syphilis: 14.9%, NG/CT: 16.4%, coinfection: 9.5%). 47.9% of all participants were living with HIV and 8.9% were newly diagnosed. A greater proportion of participants with syphilis and coinfection were living with HIV (73.5%, p<0.001; 71.0%, p<0.001) compared with those with NG/CT (47.8%) or no STI (37.8%). Participants with syphilis more often reported sex-on-premises venues (SOPVs) as the location of their last sexual encounter (51.7%, p=0.038) while those with NG/CT tended to meet their last sexual partner online (72.8%, p=0.031). Respondents with coinfection were the only STI group more likely to report transactional sex than participants without an STI (31.3%, p=0.039). CONCLUSIONS Sexual networks and partnership types of Peruvian MSM are associated with differential risks for STIs. Participants diagnosed with syphilis tended to meet single-encounter casual partners at SOPV, while MSM with NG/CT were younger and often contacted casual partners online. Coinfection had higher frequency of transactional sex. These findings suggest the potential importance of public health interventions through combined syphilis/HIV screening at SOPV, syphilis screening at routine clinic appointments for MSM living with HIV and directed advertisements and/or access to NG/CT testing through online platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Freese
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Eddy R Segura
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | - Jesse L Clark
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Cherie Blair
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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91
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Goodman-Meza D, Shoptaw S, Hanscom B, Smith LR, Andrew P, Kuo I, Lake JE, Metzger D, Morrison EAB, Cummings M, Fogel JM, Richardson P, Harris J, Heitner J, Stansfield S, El-Bassel N. Delivering integrated strategies from a mobile unit to address the intertwining epidemics of HIV and addiction in people who inject drugs: the HPTN 094 randomized controlled trial protocol (the INTEGRA Study). Trials 2024; 25:124. [PMID: 38360750 PMCID: PMC10870682 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07899-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons with opioid use disorders who inject drugs (PWID) in the United States (US) face multiple and intertwining health risks. These include interference with consistent access, linkage, and retention to health care including medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), HIV prevention using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Most services, when available, including those that address substance misuse, HIV prevention, and STIs, are often provided in multiple locations that may be difficult to access, which further challenges sustained health for PWID. HPTN 094 (INTEGRA) is a study designed to test the efficacy of an integrated, "whole-person" strategy that provides integrated HIV prevention including antiretroviral therapy (ART), PrEP, MOUD, and STI testing and treatment from a mobile health delivery unit ("mobile unit") with peer navigation compared to peer navigation alone to access these services at brick and mortar locations. METHODS HPTN 094 (INTEGRA) is a two-arm, randomized controlled trial in 5 US cities where approximately 400 PWID without HIV are assigned either to an experimental condition that delivers 26 weeks of "one-stop" integrated health services combined with peer navigation and delivered in a mobile unit or to an active control condition using peer navigation only for 26 weeks to the same set of services delivered in community settings. The primary outcomes include being alive and retained in MOUD and PrEP at 26 weeks post-randomization. Secondary outcomes measure the durability of intervention effects at 52 weeks following randomization. DISCUSSION This trial responds to a need for evidence on using a "whole-person" strategy for delivering integrated HIV prevention and substance use treatment, while testing the use of a mobile unit that meets out-of-treatment PWID wherever they might be and links them to care systems and/or harm reduction services. Findings will be important in guiding policy for engaging PWID in HIV prevention or care, substance use treatment, and STI testing and treatment by addressing the intertwined epidemics of addiction and HIV among those who have many physical and geographic barriers to access care. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04804072 . Registered on 18 March 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Goodman-Meza
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave., CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1688 USA
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - Brett Hanscom
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention (SCHARP), Seattle, WA USA
| | - Laramie R. Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA USA
| | - Philip Andrew
- Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC USA
| | - Irene Kuo
- Milken Institute School of Public Health Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - David Metzger
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | | | - Melissa Cummings
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Jessica M. Fogel
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Paul Richardson
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Jayla Harris
- Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC USA
| | - Jesse Heitner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Sarah Stansfield
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA USA
| | | | - for the HPTN 094 Study Team
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave., CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1688 USA
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA USA
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention (SCHARP), Seattle, WA USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA USA
- Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC USA
- Milken Institute School of Public Health Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- UTHealth-Houston, Houston, TX USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
- ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY USA
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA USA
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA USA
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY USA
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Paul S, Sharma A, Dayal R, Mehta M, Maitra S, Seth K, Nagrath M, Ramesh S, Saggurti N. Vulnerability to Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) / Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) among adolescent girls and young women in India: A rapid review. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298038. [PMID: 38354134 PMCID: PMC10866498 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Limited evidence is available on the vulnerability of Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) to sexual risk behaviour and STI/HIV. Though there are almost no statistics available on vulnerability, related literature suggests that AGYW have low awareness about sexual risk behaviour/ transmission and the prevalence of STI/HIV, making them vulnerable. We conducted a rapid review of peer-reviewed studies addressing transmission network, prevalence, incidence awareness, common determinants of sexual risk behaviour/STI/HIV, health-seeking behaviour and existing interventions addressing the situation among AGYW (age 15-24) to inform the evidence gap in this crucial area of research. We registered the study in PROSPERO (CRD42023403713). We developed detailed inclusion/exclusion criteria, searched JSTOR, PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Population Council Knowledge Commons databases and followed the guidance from Cochrane Rapid Review to develop the rapid review. We also searched the bibliography of the included studies. We included the English language peer-reviewed quantitative, qualitative, mixed method studies published from Jan 1 2000 to Mar 31 2023. Six reviewers extracted data, and the seventh reviewer independently assessed the quality. Ninety-six studies met the inclusion criteria. We used descriptive statistics and narrative synthesis methods for data analysis. We also conducted a Risk of Bias Assessment (RoB) to check the quality of the included studies. Inadequate literature was found on the transmission network. Prevalence and awareness of STI/HIV are low among AGYW. However, Female Sex Workers, sex-trafficked women or drug users in this age group suffer more. Age, education, income, relationship dynamics with spouses/partners, multiple partners, and substance use are crucial in determining STI/HIV. Traditional sources of health seeking are more popular than formal sources because of social stigma. Mass media campaigns, community mobilization programs, and life skills training programs increase awareness about HIV, condom use and self-efficacy. The inclusion of only English language studies and not conducting meta-analysis because of high heterogeneity are some of the limitations of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohini Paul
- Population Council Consulting Pvt Ltd, Delhi, India
| | - Anupam Sharma
- Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | | | - Mahika Mehta
- Population Council Consulting Pvt Ltd, Delhi, India
| | | | - Kuhika Seth
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Delhi, India
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Campos M, Galán JC, Rodríguez-Domínguez M, Sempere JM, Llorens C, Baquero F. Membrane computing simulation of sexually transmitted bacterial infections in hotspots of individuals with various risk behaviors. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0272823. [PMID: 38197662 PMCID: PMC10845966 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02728-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is complex due to the coexistence of various pathogens, the variety of transmission modes derived from sexual orientations and behaviors at different ages and genders, and sexual contact hotspots resulting in network transmission. There is also a growing proportion of recreational drug users engaged in high-risk sexual activities, as well as pharmacological self-protection routines fostering non-condom practices. The frequency of asymptomatic patients makes it difficult to develop a comprehensive approach to STI epidemiology. Modeling approaches are required to deal with such complexity. Membrane computing is a natural computing methodology for the virtual reproduction of epidemics under the influence of deterministic and stochastic events with an unprecedented level of granularity. The application of the LOIMOS program to STI epidemiology illustrates the possibility of using it to shape appropriate interventions. Under the conditions of our basic landscape, including sexual hotspots of individuals with various risk behaviors, an increase in condom use reduces STIs in a larger proportion of heterosexuals than in same-gender sexual contacts and is much more efficient for reducing Neisseria gonorrhoeae than Chlamydia and lymphogranuloma venereum infections. Amelioration from diagnostic STI screening could be instrumental in reducing N. gonorrhoeae infections, particularly in men having sex with men (MSM), and Chlamydia trachomatis infections in the heterosexual population; however, screening was less effective in decreasing lymphogranuloma venereum infections in MSM. The influence of STI epidemiology of sexual contacts between different age groups (<35 and ≥35 years) and in bisexual populations was also submitted for simulation.IMPORTANCEThe epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is complex and significantly influences sexual and reproductive health worldwide. Gender, age, sexual orientation, sexual behavior (including recreational drug use and physical and pharmacological protection practices), the structure of sexual contact networks, and the limited application or efficiency of diagnostic screening procedures create variable landscapes in different countries. Modeling techniques are required to deal with such complexity. We propose the use of a simulation technology based on membrane computing, mimicking in silico STI epidemics under various local conditions with an unprecedented level of detail. This approach allows us to evaluate the relative weight of the various epidemic drivers in various populations at risk and the possible outcomes of interventions in particular epidemiological landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelino Campos
- Department of Microbiology, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Valencian Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence (VRAIN), Polytechnic University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Galán
- Department of Microbiology, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP) Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mario Rodríguez-Domínguez
- Department of Microbiology, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP) Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Sempere
- Valencian Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence (VRAIN), Polytechnic University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Llorens
- Biotechvana, Valencia, Scientific Park University of Valencia, Paterna, Spain
| | - Fernando Baquero
- Department of Microbiology, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP) Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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94
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Muschialli L, Samartsidis P, Presanis AM, Mercer CH. Examining changes in sexual lifestyles in Britain between 1990-2010: a latent class analysis approach. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:366. [PMID: 38310277 PMCID: PMC10837868 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17850-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding sexual lifestyles and how they change over time is important for determining the likelihood of sexual health outcomes. Standard descriptive and regression methods are limited in their ability to capture multidimensional concepts such as sexual lifestyles. Latent Class Analysis (LCA) is a mixture modelling method that generates a categorical latent variable to derive homogenous groups from a heterogeneous population. Our study investigates (1) the potential of LCA to assess change over time in sexual lifestyles and (2) how quantifying this change using LCA compares to previous findings using standard approaches. METHODS Probability-sampled data from three rounds of the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyle (Natsal) were used, restricted to sexually active participants (i.e., those reporting sexual partners in the past year) aged 16-44 years (N1990 = 11,738; N2000 = 9,690; N2010 = 8,397). An LCA model was built from four variables: number of sexual partners (past year), number of partners without a condom (past year), age at first sex and self-perceived HIV risk. Covariates included age, ethnicity, educational attainment, same-sex attraction, and marital status. Multinomial regression analyses and Chi-Squared tests were used to investigate change over time in the size of each class. RESULTS We successfully used a LCA approach to examine change in sexual lifestyle over time. We observed a statistically significant increase between 1990 and 2010 in the proportion of men (χ2 = 739.49, p < 0.01) and women (χ2 = 1270.43, p < 0.01) in a latent class associated with reporting 2 or more partners in the last year, relatively high probabilities of reporting condomless sex partners, greater self-perceived HIV risk, and a high probability of first sex before age 16 years, increasing from 19.5% to 31.1% (men) and 9.9% to 22.1% (women). CONCLUSION Our results indicate the viability of LCA models to assess change over time for complex behavioural phenomena. They align with previous findings, namely changing sexual lifestyles in Britain in recent decades, partnership number driving class assignment, and significant sex differences in sexual lifestyles. This approach can be used to extend previous LCA models (e.g., to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on sexual lifestyles) and to support empirical evidence of change over time, facilitating more nuanced public health policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Muschialli
- UCL Medical School, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Pantelis Samartsidis
- Medical Research Council Biostatistics Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anne M Presanis
- Medical Research Council Biostatistics Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Catherine H Mercer
- Centre for Population Research in Sexual Health and HIV, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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95
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Brasil MHF, Patrício ACFDA, Nogueira WP, Freire MEM, Gir E, Silva ACDOE. Sexual behavior of university students in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-methods study. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2024; 57:e20230116. [PMID: 38315802 PMCID: PMC10843313 DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2023-0116en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the sexual behaviors of university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD Mixed study, carried out on four campuses of a public university in Paraíba, Brazil, between March 2021 and April 2022. The research followed ethical precepts. RESULTS 404 university students were included, with an average age of 23.7 years, predominantly female, brown and single. The prevalence of self-reported sexually transmitted infections was 7.9%. Male students were more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior. Multiple logistic regression indicated that university students aged 25 or over who had engaged in casual sex in the last 12 months and had received or paid for sex were more likely to have sexually transmitted infections. The content analysis showed that social isolation was reflected in reduced consumption of alcohol and other substances, reduced sexual practices, increased use of social networks, as well as low adherence to condoms. CONCLUSION Physical distancing has an impact on the sexual behavior of university students, as well as on the consumption of alcohol and other substances.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wynne Pereira Nogueira
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil
| | | | - Elucir Gir
- Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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96
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Jacques-Aviñó C, Alarcón Guitiérrez M, Barbera MJ, Fuertes I, Martin-Ezquerra G, Lopez-Contreras J, Vives Á, Rodriguez R, Ros M, Rius C, de Olalla PG. Epidemiological Characteristics and Factors Associated with Repeat Sexually Transmitted Infections in Barcelona, Spain Over a Decade. Arch Sex Behav 2024; 53:735-744. [PMID: 37875628 PMCID: PMC10844332 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02711-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
In the last few years, the frequency of sexually transmitted infections (STI) has increased, as has the number of people with multiple infections. The aim of our study was to describe the epidemiological characteristics of persons with repeated bacterial STI and to determine the risk factors for these episodes in persons living in Barcelona during the period 2007-2018. We studied all cases of bacterial STI included in the STI registry of Barcelona. Repeated STI were defined as a diagnosis of gonorrhea, syphilis, or lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) after a first episode of one of these infections. Analysis was stratified by sex and place of birth. The factors associated with time to reinfection were determined by Kaplan-Meier estimates, while the factors associated with risk of infection were determined by a Cox proportional hazards model. Of 9927 persons with a diagnosis of bacterial STI, 1690 (17.0%) had at least two episodes of STI during the study period. On multivariate analysis, repeat STI were independently associated with male sex assigned at birth (HR: 3.45; 95%CI 2.22-5.36), age less than 34 years (HR: 1.22; 95%CI 1.10-1.35); gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, and transgender o transsexual woman (GBSMS/Trans) (HR: 4.03; 95%CI 3.24-5.03), having gonorrhea as first diagnosis (HR:1.49, 95%CI 1.34-1.66) or LGV (HR:1.75; 95%CI 1.47-2.08) and coinfection with HIV (HR:1.98; 95%CI 1.78-2.21). Sexual health programs should be strengthened to prevent STI and reinfection in key populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constanza Jacques-Aviñó
- Servei d'Epidemiologia, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la Recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina, Gran Via Corts Catalanes, 587, àtic, 08007, Barcelona, Spain.
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès (Barcelona), Bellaterra, Spain.
- Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Miguel Alarcón Guitiérrez
- Servei d'Epidemiologia, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès (Barcelona), Bellaterra, Spain
- Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Jesús Barbera
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irene Fuertes
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Martin-Ezquerra
- Dermatology Department, Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joaquín Lopez-Contreras
- Infectious Diseases Unit-Internal Medicine Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Raquel Rodriguez
- Servei d'Epidemiologia, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miriam Ros
- Servei d'Epidemiologia, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Rius
- Servei d'Epidemiologia, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Recerca de l'Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia Garcia de Olalla
- Servei d'Epidemiologia, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Recerca de l'Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
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97
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Kocur W, McLeod J, Bloch SCM, MacDonald JJ, Woodward C, McInnes-Dean A, Gibbs JJ, Saunders JJ, Blandford AA, Estcourt C, Flowers P. Improving digital partner notification for sexually transmitted infections and HIV through a systematic review and application of the Behaviour Change Wheel approach. Sex Health 2024; 21:SH23168. [PMID: 38402852 DOI: 10.1071/sh23168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Partner notification (PN) is key to controlling sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Digital PN options (e.g. social media, short message service (SMS), emails) are promising in increasing PN behaviour. However, their implementation is often challenging and studies report varied levels of acceptability and uptake of PN, highlighting the need to optimise digital PN interventions. METHODS A systematic review of barriers and facilitators to digital PN interventions for STIs, including HIV, across eight research databases (from 2010 to 2023) identified eight relevant studies, two of which addressed HIV. Data extraction identified 98 barriers and 54 facilitators to the use of digital PN interventions. These were synthesised into 18 key barriers and 17 key facilitators that were each deemed amenable to change. We then used the Behaviour Change Wheel approach, the Acceptability, Practicability, Effectiveness, Affordability, Side-effects and Equity criteria, and multidisciplinary expert input, to systematically develop practical recommendations to optimise digital PN. RESULTS Thirty-two specific recommendations clustered around three themes. Digital PN interventions should: (1) empower and support the index patient by providing a range of notification options, accompanied by clear instructions; (2) integrate into users' existing habits and the digital landscape, meeting contemporary standards and expectations of usability; and (3) address the social context of PN both online and offline through normalising the act of PN, combating STI-related stigma and stressing the altruistic aspects of PN through consistent messaging to service users and the public. CONCLUSIONS Our evidence-based recommendations should be used to optimise existing digital PN interventions and inform the co-production of new ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Will Kocur
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Julie McLeod
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | | | - Jennifer J MacDonald
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Charlotte Woodward
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, England, UK
| | | | - Jo J Gibbs
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, England, UK
| | - John J Saunders
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, England, UK; and UK Health Security Agency, Colindale, England, UK
| | | | - Claudia Estcourt
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Paul Flowers
- Psychological Science and Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
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98
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Evans D, Cowen K, Fairley C, Randall C, Hocking J, Ludwick T, Tomnay J. STI-X: a novel approach to STI testing in rural and regional Victoria, Australia. Sex Health 2024; 21:NULL. [PMID: 38043924 DOI: 10.1071/sh23118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Accessing testing for sexually transmissible infections (STI) in regional and rural areas can be challenging for many people. Innovative solutions are necessary to ensure that barriers are minimised for populations who are often disadvantaged by the health system. STI-X, our STI test vending machine brings testing to local communities in areas where accessing a clinical service can be difficult due to extended wait times or where there is concern about privacy. Providing the option of a free, quick and easy STI test aims to reduce the prevalence of STIs and the burden on the primary care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Evans
- Centre for Excellence in Rural Sexual Health, Department of Rural Health, University of Melbourne, 49 Graham Street, Shepparton, Vic., Australia
| | - Kim Cowen
- Centre for Excellence in Rural Sexual Health, Department of Rural Health, University of Melbourne, 49 Graham Street, Shepparton, Vic., Australia
| | - Christopher Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, Vic., Australia
| | - Claire Randall
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, 580 Swanston Street, Carlton, Vic., Australia
| | - Jane Hocking
- Sexual Health Unit, School of Global and Population Health, University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, Vic., Australia
| | - Teralynn Ludwick
- Sexual Health Unit, School of Global and Population Health, University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton, Vic., Australia
| | - Jane Tomnay
- Centre for Excellence in Rural Sexual Health, Department of Rural Health, University of Melbourne, 49 Graham Street, Shepparton, Vic., Australia
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99
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Li C, Zhao P, Tan RKJ, Wu D. Community engagement tools in HIV/STI prevention research. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2024; 37:53-62. [PMID: 38050762 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Community engagement is key to the success of sustainable public health interventions. This review highlights recent published studies that describe the use of community-engaged methods in sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention research. RECENT FINDINGS We organized the findings using a socio-ecological model. At the individual level, communities were engaged through participation in formative research, short-term consultations and community advisory board participation, as well as co-creation activities. At the interpersonal level, studies reviewed described peer-led interventions that leverage the influence and guidance of peers, patient-led interventions in the form of patient navigation and notification, as well as those that mobilize social networks and the power of social relationships to promote health. At the organizational and community level, multisectoral, multifacility collaborations between community, government, and academic stakeholders were highlighted. At the policy and population level, communities were engaged through community dialogues to disseminate research findings, as well as in developing strategic frameworks and clinical guidelines. Digital tools have also been leveraged for effective community engagement. SUMMARY Communities have an effective role to play in STI prevention and can be engaged at multiple levels. Future efforts may consider the use of community engagement tools highlighted in this review, including digital technologies that have the potential to reach more diverse end-users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Li
- Tokyo College, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- The University of North Carolina Project China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peipei Zhao
- Jane Addams College of Social Work, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Rayner K J Tan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Dan Wu
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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100
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Nilasari H, Indriatmi W, Irawan Y, Budiono SE, Silviana A, Waworuntu W. The prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and their association with knowledge, attitudes, and practice in male street children in Indonesia. Int J STD AIDS 2024; 35:112-121. [PMID: 37768298 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231202058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Street children's level of knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV-related diseases remains a challenge since it is difficult to reach all key populations. This study aims to provide an overview of the findings of STI cases and their association with the KAP of street children in Jakarta and Banten. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study on 259 male street children (aged 10 -21 years old). We collected the data through questionnaire interviews, history taking, physical examination, and specimen collection for STI and HIV testing. RESULTS 5.8% (n = 15) STI cases were discovered, consisting of Hepatitis B (n = 6), Hepatitis C (n = 1), HIV (n = 2), Chlamydia (n = 3), Syphilis (n = 1), and Gonorrhea (n = 1). Buskers (44.4%) and other occupations like helping parents sell their wares, parking lot attendants, shoe shiners, or gathering (44.8%) dominated the sociodemographic characteristics. Condomless sex predominated risky sexual behavior, despite some subjects already having good knowledge. CONCLUSION Sociodemographic characteristics and the KAP of street children in Indonesia are varied. The association between the KAP level and STI cases in street children is challenging to describe. Further studies covering more areas in Indonesia are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanny Nilasari
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Wresti Indriatmi
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Yudo Irawan
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Santoso Edy Budiono
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Andiati Silviana
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
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