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Santaolaya C, Malhotra J, Fowler JA, Warzywoda S, Debattista J, Mills DJ, Lau C, Furuya-Kanamori L, Durham J, Mullens AB, Istiko SN, Dean JA. Integrating sexual and reproductive health into pre-travel consultations. J Travel Med 2024; 31:taae024. [PMID: 38340322 PMCID: PMC11149722 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taae024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Casual sex during travel is a major preventable factor in the global transmission of sexually transmissible infections (STI). Pre-travel consults present an excellent opportunity for practitioners to educate travellers about sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and safety. This scoping review aims to explore and understand the extent to which SRH is included in pre-travel consultations. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Scopus, Medline and Web of Science were systematically searched for primary research articles exploring whether health care practitioners (HCP) included SRH in pre-travel consultations. Extracted findings were synthesized and presented in narrative form. RESULTS Findings across 13 articles suggest HCPs infrequently broached SRH in pre-travel consultations with HCP discomfort, and lack of time and resources presented as key barriers. Urban practice settings, HCP experience, training in travel medicine and traveller characteristics such as sexual orientation were positively associated with discussions about SRH. SRH advice reported was general in nature, primarily focusing on safer sex, condoms or unspecified STI advice. Risk assessments based solely on age or stereotypes around sexual preferences led to key aspects of SRH care being missed for some (e.g. SRH was less likely to be discussed with older travellers). CONCLUSIONS HCPs frequently miss opportunities to integrate SRH into pre-travel consultations. Strategies to promote HCP confidence and awareness present a promising means to boost the frequency and quality of SRH advice disseminated. Integrating culturally safe and responsive SRH history-taking and advice into pre-travel consultations may contribute to global reductions in STI transmission and promote traveller SRH well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Santaolaya
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Juhi Malhotra
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - James A Fowler
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Sarah Warzywoda
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Joe Debattista
- Metro North Public Health Unit, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD 4053, Australia
| | | | - Colleen Lau
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Luis Furuya-Kanamori
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Jo Durham
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation (AusHSI), Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Amy B Mullens
- School of Psychology and Wellbeing, Centre for Health Research, Institute for Resilient Regions, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
| | - Satrio N Istiko
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Judith A Dean
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
- UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4066, Australia
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Shiferaw W, Martin BM, Dean JA, Mills D, Lau C, Paterson D, Koh K, Eriksson L, Furuya-Kanamori L. A systematic review and meta-analysis of sexually transmitted infections and blood-borne viruses in travellers. J Travel Med 2024; 31:taae038. [PMID: 38438164 PMCID: PMC11149723 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taae038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and blood-borne viruses (BBVs) impose a global health and economic burden. International travellers facilitate the spread of infectious diseases, including STIs. Hence, this review assessed the prevalence/proportionate morbidity of travellers with STIs and sexually transmitted BBVs and factors associated with the infection in this population. METHODS PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Embase and Cochrane Library were searched from inception of the databases until November 2022. Published analytical observational studies reporting the prevalence/proportionate morbidity of travellers with STIs and factors associated with STIs by type of traveller [i.e. tourists, business travellers, students, visiting friends or relatives (VFRs), international truck drivers, backpackers, expatriates and men who have sex with men (MSM)] were included. The selection of articles, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were conducted by two independent reviewers. Meta-analyses were conducted for each STI by clinical presentation and type of traveller. RESULTS Thirty-two studies (n = 387 731 travellers) were included; 19 evaluated the proportionate morbidity of STIs among symptomatic travellers, while 13 examined the prevalence of STIs in asymptomatic travellers. The highest proportionate morbidity was found among VFRs (syphilis, 1.67%; 95% CI: 1.03-2.81%), backpackers (Chlamydia trachomatis, 6.58%; 95% CI: 5.96-7.25%) and MSM (HIV [2.50%;95% CI: 0.44-12.88%], gonorrhoea [4.17%; 95% CI: 1.1.5-13.98%], lymphogranuloma venereum [4.17%;95% CI: 1.1.5-13.98%] and HAV [20.0%; 95% CI: 14.99-26.17%]). The highest prevalence of STIs among asymptomatic were found in MSM (HIV [25.94%; 95% CI: 22.21-30.05%] and HBV [24.90%; 95% CI: 21.23-28.96%]) and backpackers (C. trachomatis, 3.92%; 95% CI: 2.72-5.32%). Short duration of the trip (<1 month), not having pre-travel consultation, travelling to Southeast Asia and being unvaccinated for HBV were identified as risk factors for STIs. CONCLUSION Strategies to prevent STIs and sexually transmitted BBVs should be discussed at pre-travel consultations, and recommendations should be prioritized in high-risk groups of travellers, such as backpackers, VFRs and MSMs. Additionally, healthcare providers should tailor recommendations for safe sex practices to individual travellers' unique needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wondimeneh Shiferaw
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
- Asrat Woldeyes Health Science Campus, Debre Berhan University, Ethiopia
| | - Beatris Mario Martin
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Judith A Dean
- UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, Faculty of Health, and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Toowong, Australia
| | - Deborah Mills
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
- Dr Deb The Travel Doctor, Travel Medicine Alliance, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Colleen Lau
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - David Paterson
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Kenneth Koh
- Gladstone Road Medical Centre, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lars Eriksson
- Herston Health Sciences Library, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Luis Furuya-Kanamori
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
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Teker B, Schim van der Loeff M, Hoornenborg E, Boyd A, Reedijk S, van Dam A, Jongen VW, de Vries H. Minimum inhibitory concentrations of Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains in clients of the Amsterdam sexual health clinic with a Dutch versus an international sexual network. Sex Transm Infect 2024; 100:173-180. [PMID: 38575313 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2023-055988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES International travel combined with sex may contribute to dissemination of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng). To assess the role of travel in Ng strain susceptibility, we compared minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for five antibiotics (ie, azithromycin, ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, cefixime and ciprofloxacin) in strains from clients with an exclusively Dutch sexual network and clients with an additional international sexual network. METHODS From 2013 to 2019, we recorded recent residence of sexual partners of clients (and of their partners) with Ng at the Center for Sexual Health of Amsterdam. We categorised clients as having: (1) exclusively sexual partners residing in the Netherlands ('Dutch only') or (2) at least one partner residing outside the Netherlands. We categorised the country of residence of sexual partners by World Bank/EuroVoc regions. We analysed the difference of log-transformed MIC of Ng strains between categories using linear or hurdle regression for each antibiotic. RESULTS We included 3367 gay and bisexual men who had sex with men (GBMSM), 516 women and 525 men who exclusively had sex with women (MSW) with Ng. Compared with GBMSM with a 'Dutch only' network, GBMSM with: (1) a Western European network had higher MICs for ceftriaxone (β=0.19, 95% CI=0.08 to 0.29), cefotaxime (β=0.19, 95% CI=0.08 to 0.31) and cefixime (β=0.06, 95% CI=0.001 to 0.11); (2) a Southern European network had a higher MIC for cefixime (β=0.10, 95% CI=0.02 to 0.17); and (3) a sub-Saharan African network had a lower MIC for ciprofloxacin (β=-1.79, 95% CI=-2.84 to -0.74). In women and MSW, higher MICs were found for ceftriaxone in clients with a Latin American and Caribbean network (β=0.26, 95% CI=0.02 to 0.51). CONCLUSIONS For three cephalosporin antibiotics, we found Ng strains with slightly higher MICs in clients with partner(s) from Europe or Latin America and the Caribbean. International travel might contribute to the spread of Ng with lower susceptibility. More understanding of the emergence of AMR Ng is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buhari Teker
- Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Dermatology, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten Schim van der Loeff
- Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AII), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute (APH), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AII), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AII), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sophia Reedijk
- Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alje van Dam
- Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vita Willemijn Jongen
- Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henry de Vries
- Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Dermatology, Amsterdam UMC Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AII), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute (APH), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Vicente de la Cruz MDLM, Giesen C, Díaz-Menéndez M. International travels and transmission of multidrug resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Europe: A systematic review. Travel Med Infect Dis 2022; 49:102401. [PMID: 35850441 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2022.102401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increase of gonococcal infection cases in Europe and rises in Neisseria gonorrhoeae antibiotic resistance (AMR) have become an urgent concern globally. In the last few years international tourism has increased, which might contribute to the spread of different strains of multiresistant gonococcal infections. This study aimed at assessing the effect of international travel on the transmission of multidrug resistant N. gonorrhoeae in the European Union and associated European countries. METHOD We conducted a systematic review and searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase and CENTRAL between January 1, 2010 and June 30, 2021 for gonococcal infection, antibiotic resistance and international travel. Articles were screened in title, abstract and keywords. The quality of the articles was assessed using a pre-designed tool. Individual, travel related and susceptibility to antimicrobials data were collected. RESULTS A total of 18 studies met our criteria, of which 88.9% concluded that international travel directly influences the transmission of multidrug resistant N. gonorrhoeae from the country of travel to the country of return. Travelers mainly visited South East Asian countries (66.7%) and returned to the UK (38.9%). Half of the included studies reported ciprofloxacin resistant strains and the most frequently prescribed drug used for treatment was ceftriaxone. CONCLUSIONS International travels might be an important factor in the spread of multi-resistant sexually transmitted infections (STIs). There is a need to strengthen AMR surveillance in international travelers for prompt investigation and notification of drug resistance in STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christine Giesen
- Preventive Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitario Infanta Sofía, San Sebastián de los Reyes (Madrid), Spain.
| | - Marta Díaz-Menéndez
- National Referral Centre for Tropical Diseases. Hospital Universitario La Paz-Carlos III, Madrid, Spain, CIBERINFEC
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Gareau E, Phillips KP. Sexual behaviors at home and abroad: an online survey of Canadian young adult travelers. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:967. [PMID: 35562691 PMCID: PMC9106270 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13383-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For young adults, travel- an accessible and aspirational experience- may be accompanied by high-risk lifestyle behaviors abroad, which in turn, increases the risk of sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI). This study aimed to examine sexual and risk behaviors of young Canadian adults both at-home and during international travel. METHODS Sexually-active Canadians, aged 18-25 years (N = 646) who travelled abroad in 2016, completed an online, cross-sectional survey analyzed by descriptive statistics. Outcome measures included young Canadian adults' lifestyle risk and sexual behaviors at-home and abroad. RESULTS Sexual behaviors, both penetrative and non-penetrative activities, decreased significantly (p < 0.001; McNemar test) abroad compared to at-home. International travel elicited a statistically significant increase in alcohol consumption compared to at-home (Wilcoxon, z = - 11.341, p < 0.001). Partner type (new trip-acquired partner) abroad was associated with a greater number of travel-acquired sexual partners (Mann-Whitney, U = 4901, p < 0.001), inconsistent condom use during penetrative sex (U = 7215, p = 0.009), and sex under the influence of alcohol (Test of Two Proportions, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Although many young Canadian respondents practiced abstinence in their 2016 travel, for sexually-active travelers, new partner-type was related to high risk sexual behaviors. Young Canadians exhibited sexual risk behaviors both at-home and while travelling; suggesting the need for both domestic and pre-travel sexual health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuelle Gareau
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, 25 University Private, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Karen P Phillips
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, 25 University Private, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 6N5, Canada.
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Global Travel and Antimicrobial Resistance: a Challenge for Stewardship. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40506-021-00257-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Jäger L, Senn O, Rosemann T, Plate A. Awareness, Attitudes and Clinical Practices Regarding Human Papillomavirus Vaccination among General Practitioners and Pediatricians in Switzerland. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9040332. [PMID: 33915931 PMCID: PMC8065954 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9040332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In Switzerland, the human papillomavirus vaccination (HPVv) coverage rate lies below a desirable threshold. General practitioners (GPs) and pediatricians have been recognized as important providers of the HPVv, but there is little known about their self-attributed role and its relationship with their actual HPVv behavior. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore the awareness, attitudes, and clinical practices of Swiss GPs and pediatricians concerning HPVv by means of a web-based questionnaire. We analyzed the responses of 422 physicians (72% GPs, 28% pediatricians). A substantial proportion of respondents considered the HPVv “absolutely essential” (54.2% of pediatricians, 30.6% of GPs). GPs indicated spending more time and effort on HPVv counseling for female rather than male patients more often compared to pediatricians (44.0% versus 13.9%, p < 0.001). The weekly number of patients aged 18–26 years seen in practice (p = 0.002) and whether the HPVv was deemed “absolutely essential” (adjusted odds ratio 2.39, 95% confidence interval 1.12–5.08) were factors associated with GPs administering HPVv in their practice. Shortcomings in terms of awareness, effort in the identification of potential vaccination candidates, and the role of male patients were revealed. By addressing these gaps, Swiss primary care providers could contribute to an increase in the national HPVv coverage rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levy Jäger
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-44-255-75-06
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Aggarwal S, Singh AK, Balaji S, Ambalkar D. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and its changing scenario: A scoping review. Comb Chem High Throughput Screen 2021; 25:1630-1638. [PMID: 33645477 DOI: 10.2174/1386207324666210301093001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and reproductive tract infections (RTIs) have existed worldwide since ancient time, causing significant morbidity and mortality. To maintain healthy sexual and reproductive life, it is highly essential to prevent STIs, RTIs and related illnesses. STIs are transmitted by swapping body fluids among people during sexual intercourse. The etiological agents for STIs are bacteria, virus and parasites for most cases, but proportions by different aetiology are changing. Various studies have shown that STIs are increasing, and its primary aetiology is changing worldwide. That should be considered seriously and needs necessary actions. Several factors related to hosts and disease-causing agents have identified to influence STIs' current strategies in the prevention and control program. The present assessment attempts to review the history, changing aetiology and antimicrobial resistance in STIs. This review has also highlighted the prevalence of STIs at the global level and their past and present trends in India, emphasising its future challenges and perspectives for making effective public health policies to prevent and control STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Aggarwal
- Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases Division, Indian Council of Medical Research-Headquarters, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi-110029. India
| | - Amit Kumar Singh
- ICMR-National JALMA Institute for Leprosy and other Mycobacterial diseases, Tajgani, Agra-282004. India
| | - Sivaraman Balaji
- Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases Division, Indian Council of Medical Research-Headquarters, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi-110029. India
| | - Deepti Ambalkar
- Department of lab medicine, Max Super speciality hospital, Saket Delhi -110017. India
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Sun, sea and sex: a review of the sex tourism literature. TROPICAL DISEASES TRAVEL MEDICINE AND VACCINES 2020; 6:24. [PMID: 33292661 PMCID: PMC7691961 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-020-00124-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Background Sex tourism is defined as travel planned specifically for the purpose of sex, generally to a country where prostitution is legal. While much of the literature on sex tourism relates to the commercial sex worker industry, sex tourism also finds expression in non-transactional sexual encounters. This narrative review explores current concepts related to travel and sex, with a focus on trans-national sex tourism. Methods The PubMed database was accessed to source relevant literature, using combinations of pertinent search terms. Only articles published in the English language were selected. Reference lists of published articles were also examined for relevant articles. Results With regard to preferred destinations, South/Central America and the Caribbean were more likely to receive tourists looking for casual sex. Longer duration of travel, travelling alone or with friends, alcohol or drug use, being younger and being single were factors associated with higher levels of casual sex overseas. The majority of literature retrieved on sex workers focused on risk behaviours, sexually transmitted infections (STI), mobility of sex workers and how these factors affected their lives. Sex tourists require better access to effective methods of preventing HIV, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis, and better education on HIV prevention. Drugs and alcohol play a major role as risk factors for and cofactors in casual sexual behaviour while abroad. Conclusions Travellers need to be informed of the increased risks of STI before travel. They should be aware of the local prevalence of STIs and the risks associated with their sexual practices when they travel, including engaging with commercial sex workers, having unprotected sexual intercourse and becoming victims of sexual violence.
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Aung ET, Chow EP, Fairley CK, Hocking JS, Bradshaw CS, Williamson DA, Chen MY. International travel as risk factor for Chlamydia trachomatis infections among young heterosexuals attending a sexual health clinic in Melbourne, Australia, 2007 to 2017. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 24. [PMID: 31690365 PMCID: PMC6836681 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2019.24.44.1900219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundInternational travel is considered a risk factor for acquiring Chlamydia trachomatis; however, there are little empirical data to support this.AimTo examine the prevalence and risk factors for Chlamydia trachomatis infections among heterosexual international travellers (n = 28,786) attending the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC), Australia, compared to Australian residents (n = 20,614).MethodsWe conducted a repeated cross-sectional study and analysed sexual behaviours and chlamydia positivity among heterosexual males and females aged ≤ 30 attending MSHC for the first time between January 2007 and February 2017. 'Travellers' were defined as individuals born outside of Australia who had resided in the country < 2 years. Associations between patient characteristics and chlamydia positivity were examined.ResultsChlamydia positivity was higher among travellers (11.2%) compared with Australian residents (8.5%; p < 0.001). Male travellers had higher chlamydia positivity (12.1%) than Australian males (9.3%; p < 0.001), as did female travellers (10.4%) compared with Australian females (7.7%; p < 0.001). Travellers had a higher mean number of sexual partners than Australian residents among males (5.7 vs 4.7; p < 0.001) and females (3.6 vs 3.2; p < 0.001). Travellers from the United Kingdom, Europe, Ireland and New Zealand accounted for 29.6%, 21%, 8.5% and 5.8% of C. trachomatis infections, respectively. Chlamydia in males and females was associated with younger age (≤ 25), inconsistent condom use, a higher number of sexual partners (≥ 4 partners) and being a traveller (p < 0.001).ConclusionsWe found that international travel is an independent risk factor for chlamydia among young heterosexual travellers in Australia, who should therefore be a target group for chlamydia prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ei T Aung
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eric Pf Chow
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jane S Hocking
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Deborah A Williamson
- Microbiological Diagnostic Unit Public Health Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne at The Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marcus Y Chen
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
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Sex Tourism, Condomless Anal Intercourse, and HIV Risk Among Men Who Have Sex With Men. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2020; 30:405-414. [PMID: 31241505 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Sex tourism affects the sexual health of tourists and locals with whom they interact. However, a few studies have examined whether sex tourism is a risk factor for the acquisition of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men, and no such studies have been conducted in Western Europe. Almost 28% of our respondents reported engaging in sex tourism in their lifetime. Sex tourism was associated with an elevated risk of engagement in condomless receptive anal intercourse, use of alcohol/drugs during sex, participation in group sex, and an elevated risk of diagnosis with any type of sexually transmitted infection over the previous year, specifically gonorrhea and chlamydia. Research with men who have sex with men who engage in sex tourism should explore high-risk sexual behavior during sex tourism and also the feasibility and acceptability of the use of episodic pre-exposure prophylaxis for short periods of participation in elevated risk behaviors by tourists and local sex partners.
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12
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Bourque DL, Solomon DA, Sax PE. Health Considerations for HIV-Infected International Travelers. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2019; 21:16. [PMID: 30980287 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-019-0672-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW International travel continues to steadily increase, including leisure travel, travel to one's country of origin to visit friends and relatives, travel for service work, and business travel. Travelers with HIV may have an increased risk for travel-associated infections. The pre-travel medical consultation is an important means of assessing one's risk for travel-related health issues. The aim of this review is to provide an update on key health considerations for the HIV-infected traveler. RECENT FINDINGS Like all travelers, the HIV-infected traveler should adhere to behavioral precautions, including safety measures with food and water consumption, safe sexual practices, and arthropod bite avoidance. HIV is a risk factor for venous thromboembolism and patients should be educated regarding this risk. Most pre-travel vaccines are safe and immunogenic in HIV-infected individuals, though live vaccines should be avoided in patients with low CD4 counts. Malaria chemoprophylaxis is strongly recommended in patients with HIV traveling to endemic areas and no significant interactions exist between the commonly used prophylactic anti-malarial agents and anti-retroviral therapy (ART). Travelers with HIV, particularly those who are not on ART or who have low CD4 cell counts, may have increased risk for tuberculosis, malaria, enteric infections, visceral leishmaniasis, American trypanosomiasis, and endemic mycoses such as histoplasmosis, talaromycosis, and coccidioidomycosis. The immune status of the HIV-infected traveler should be assessed prior to travel along with the duration, itinerary, and activities planned during travel in order to carefully consider individual risk for travel-related health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel L Bourque
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Travel Medicine, Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, MA, USA. .,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Daniel A Solomon
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. .,Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Paul E Sax
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. .,Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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Decraene V, Kühlmann Berenzon S, Andersson Franko M, Veličko I. Differences in travel-related incidence of chlamydia by age groups, gender and destination: Sweden 2000-2013. Travel Med Infect Dis 2018; 25:42-49. [PMID: 29476910 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 02/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The absolute number of travel-related Chlamydia cases in Sweden has consistently increased between 2000 and 2013. Given the growth in international travel, we aimed to study the trends of travel-related Chlamydia incidence to determine differences and identify high-risk groups and destinations. METHODS For 2000-2013 we calculated annual Chlamydia incidence per 100,000 travels by dividing the number of notified travel-related cases by the number of travels; the latter were collected from a yearly survey among Swedish residents. For specific destinations 95% confidence intervals were calculated and monotonic yearly trends tested. RESULTS The overall median annual travel-related Chlamydia incidence was higher for women than for men, but the opposite was true in age groups >25 years. For men, Thailand had the highest incidence, which was 3-7 times higher than the next highest destination in each age group. Spain, Turkey and Thailand had the highest incidence among women, but differences between countries were smaller than for men. For most destinations the yearly trends were stable. CONCLUSIONS We showed different profiles for men and women and age groups in terms of high incidence destinations. This specific information could allow to better tailor safe sex messages and advocate post-travel Chlamydia testing to target groups travelling to certain destinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Decraene
- European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden; Public Health England North West, Liverpool, United Kingdom; The Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
| | | | | | - Inga Veličko
- The Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
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Crawford G, Lobo R, Brown G, Macri C, Smith H, Maycock B. HIV, Other Blood-Borne Viruses and Sexually Transmitted Infections amongst Expatriates and Travellers to Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:E1249. [PMID: 27999275 PMCID: PMC5201390 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13121249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In some high-income countries, a proportion of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), other blood-borne virus (BBV) or sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnoses have been reported as acquired overseas in low- and middle-income countries. A review was conducted to explore HIV, other BBV or STI related knowledge, risk behavior and acquisition amongst expatriates and travelers, particularly males, travelling from high to low- and middle-income countries. Seven academic databases were searched for 26 peer reviewed articles that met inclusion criteria. Significant variability in the studies was noted, in age, travel duration and frequency and outcomes/risk factors measured and reported on. Risk factors described included longer duration of stay; being single; travel for romance or sex; alcohol and other drug use; lack of travel advice; being male; higher number of sexual partners; and inconsistent condom use. Vaccination, pre-travel health advice, and having fewer sexual partners were described as protective. Studies are needed focusing on the social context in which risk-taking occurs. Better collaboration is essential to deliver comprehensive health promotion interventions alongside more consistent pre- and post- travel testing and advice. Policy measures are crucial, including consistent evaluation indicators to assess impacts of HIV, other BBVs or STIs in the context of mobility. Risks and responses for these epidemics are shared globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Crawford
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth 6845, Australia.
| | - Roanna Lobo
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth 6845, Australia.
| | - Graham Brown
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth 6845, Australia.
- Australian Research Centre in Sex Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3083, Australia.
| | - Chloe Macri
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth 6845, Australia.
| | - Hannah Smith
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth 6845, Australia.
| | - Bruce Maycock
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth 6845, Australia.
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Angelova M, Kovachev E, Tsankova V, Koleva I, Mangarova S. Role and Importance of Chlamydia Trachomatis in Pregnant Patients. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2016; 4:410-412. [PMID: 27703564 PMCID: PMC5042624 DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2016.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of chlamydial infection among pregnant women and to determine the role of this infection in the fetus. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In the first phase of this study were reported 58 pregnant women with a positive test for active chlamydial infection by applying immunofluorescence. In the second phase of the study were reported pregnant with premature burst membranes (PBM), postnatal complications associated with chlamydial infection as puerperal endometritis, and newborns are monitored for low birth weight and growth retardation at birth. RESULTS: With a positive test are 58 patients in the first trimester or pregnancy registration in our consultation. After regimen with Sumamed (2 x 500 mg for three days and after 10 days again same scheme for them and their partner) at the beginning of the third trimester, the PCR test was made again. Of these, 5 were positive again, participants are between 20 and 30 years old. With premature rupture of OM are 20 patients. There was no increased incidence of premature births. Infants born to infected mothers have a higher risk of developing respiratory symptoms in the first 60 days of life. 3 of them have low for his age bodyweight. CONCLUSIONS: The scarcity of data on manifestations of chlamydial infection during pregnancy and neonatal outcomes justifies this study. Early diagnosis for registration of pregnancy and timely treatment of chlamydial infection as well as scrutinising the infection during the third trimester of pregnancy can prevent infection of the newborn. Therefore, preventive examinations should be considered as a priority for early detection of asymptomatic chlamydial infection in the conduct of antenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Angelova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trakia University, Faculty of Medicine, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Emil Kovachev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Paraskev Stoyanov Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Veselina Tsankova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trakia University, Faculty of Medicine, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Iliana Koleva
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trakia University, Faculty of Medicine, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Silvia Mangarova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trakia University, Faculty of Medicine, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
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Tanton C, Johnson AM, Macdowall W, Datta J, Clifton S, Field N, Mitchell KR, Wellings K, Sonnenberg P, Mercer CH. Forming new sex partnerships while overseas: findings from the third British National Survey of Sexual Attitudes & Lifestyles (Natsal-3). Sex Transm Infect 2016; 92:415-23. [PMID: 27272533 PMCID: PMC5013104 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2015-052459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Travelling away from home presents opportunities for new sexual partnerships, which may be associated with sexually transmitted infection (STI) risk. We examined the prevalence of, and factors associated with, reporting new sexual partner(s) while overseas, and whether this differed by partners' region of residence. METHODS We analysed data from 12 530 men and women aged 16-74 years reporting ≥1 sexual partner(s) in the past 5 years in Britain's third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal-3), a probability survey undertaken 2010-2012. RESULTS 9.2% (95% CI 8.3% to 10.1%) of men and 5.3% (4.8% to 5.8%) of women reported new sexual partner(s) while overseas in the past 5 years. This was strongly associated with higher partner numbers and other sexual and health risk behaviours. Among those with new partners while overseas, 72% of men and 58% of women reported partner(s) who were not UK residents. Compared with those having only UK partners while abroad, these people were more likely to identify as 'White Other' or 'Non-White' (vs White British ethnicity), report higher partner numbers, new partners from outside the UK while in the UK and paying for sex (men only) all in the past 5 years. There was no difference in reporting STI diagnosis/es during this time period. CONCLUSIONS Reporting new partners while overseas was associated with a range of sexual risk behaviours. Advice on sexual health should be included as part of holistic health advice for all travellers, regardless of age, destination or reason for travel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Tanton
- Research Department of Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anne M Johnson
- Research Department of Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Wendy Macdowall
- Department of Social & Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jessica Datta
- Department of Social & Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Soazig Clifton
- Research Department of Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK NatCen Social Research, London, UK
| | - Nigel Field
- Research Department of Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kirstin R Mitchell
- Department of Social & Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK MRC/CSO Social & Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kaye Wellings
- Department of Social & Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Pam Sonnenberg
- Research Department of Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Catherine H Mercer
- Research Department of Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
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17
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Lewis CT, de Wildt G. Sexual behaviour of backpackers who visit Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, Thailand: a cross-sectional study. Sex Transm Infect 2016; 92:410-4. [PMID: 27272532 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2015-052301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To measure the proportion of backpackers engaging in unprotected sex while travelling in Thailand and to identify predictors of unsafe sexual behaviour. METHODS A cross-sectional study using an anonymous questionnaire was performed. English-speaking backpackers, excluding US and Thai citizens, were recruited while travelling through the piers of Koh Tao and Koh Phangan between 25 January and 13 March 2013. RESULTS 61.5% (1238/2013) respondents were travelling without a long-term sexual partner, of whom 39.1% (29.4% females; 51.9% males) reported intercourse with a new partner. 36.8% of these reported inconsistent/no condom use. Inconsistent condom use was independently associated with age <25 years, UK (vs Canadian) nationality and not bringing condoms from home. Backpackers who brought condoms from home were more likely to have sex with a new partner. Male gender and longer trip length increased the likelihood of new partner acquisition and overall risk of unsafe sex but were not associated with inconsistent condom use. New partners were most commonly backpackers from other countries. Men were more likely than women to have sex with a local person. CONCLUSIONS Backpackers visiting Thailand frequently report unsafe sex. Partner demographics demonstrate a mechanism of international sexually transmitted infection (STI) transfer. In an era of growing antibiotic resistance and continuing HIV transmission, targeting unsafe sex in backpackers has the potential to reduce STI incidence internationally. These data highlight the need for innovative public health intervention. To focus such measures, future research may elucidate why certain groups are at higher risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- C T Lewis
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - G de Wildt
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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18
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Abstract
"The traveler's medical kit is an essential tool for both the novice and expert traveler. It is designed to treat travel-related illness and injury and to ensure preexisting medical conditions are managed appropriately. Travelers are at increased risk for common gastrointestinal issues during travel. Respiratory illnesses make up approximately 8% of the ailments present in returned international travelers. Approximately 12% of travelers experience a travel-related skin condition. First aid treatment for minor injuries is essential to all travel medical kits. The complexity ranges from a small, simple case for the urban traveler to a larger, extensive case for wilderness travel."
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Terry
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Box 354410, Seattle, WA 98195-4410, USA
| | - N Jean Haulman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Box 354410, Seattle, WA 98195-4410, USA.
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Polli JB, Polli I. Traveling with children: beyond car seat safety. JORNAL DE PEDIATRIA (VERSÃO EM PORTUGUÊS) 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedp.2015.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Polli JB, Polli I. Traveling with children: beyond car seat safety. J Pediatr (Rio J) 2015; 91:515-22. [PMID: 26232504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jped.2015.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2015] [Revised: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To spread knowledge and instigate the health professional to give advice on childcare during travels and on child transport safety. SOURCES OF DATA Literature review through the LILACS and MEDLINE(®) databases, using the terms: travel, safety, protective equipment, child, preventive medicine, retrieving articles published in the last 21 years. SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS The authors analyzed 93 articles, of which 66 met the inclusion criteria after summaries were read. For drafting this article, the following sub-themes were proposed: getting ready to travel with children; knowing some of the transfer risks (air, land and water transportation) and exploring the destination with children (sun exposure, accommodations, altitude, food, traveler's diarrhea, insect bites) and return from the trip with children. CONCLUSIONS Over the years, there has been an increase in the number of children who travel around the world. However, this population is still subject to health problems while traveling and may be even more susceptible than the adult age group. These problems arise from a variety of factors, including exposure to infectious organisms, the use of certain types of transportation, and participation in some activities, such as hiking at high altitudes, among others. However, when traveling with children, these risk factors can be overlooked; a trip that is considered safe for an adult might not be a good choice for this age group. The pediatric consultation should be a good opportunity to optimize preventive guidelines at the pre-trip planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janaina Borges Polli
- Universidade de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Ismael Polli
- Universidade de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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21
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Alcedo S, Kossuth-Cabrejos S, Piscoya A, Mayta-Tristán P. Factors associated with non-use of condoms in an online community of frequent travellers. Travel Med Infect Dis 2015; 12:750-6. [PMID: 25457304 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2014.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Revised: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Millions of travellers around the world have gathered together into online communities. The objective is to analyse the factors associated with risky sexual behaviour among travellers. METHODS Cross-sectional study was conducted within an online community of travellers using an online survey; we included travellers who had engaged in sexual activity while on their last trip. Risky sexual behaviour was defined as inconsistent condom use (<100%), and the factors associated were evaluated using the prevalence ratio (PR). RESULTS Of the 468 participants, 245 had sex during their last trip. 59.7% did not consistently use condoms, and one out of every four participants reported never using condoms. Having a travel destination of Latin America or the Caribbean was significantly associated with inconsistent condom use. This association was maintained (PR 1.37, CI 95% 1.06–1.77) after adjusting for gender, age, migration, the presence of travel partners, and the use of drugs and alcohol prior to sexual activity. CONCLUSION An association was observed between travel destination (specifically Latin America or the Caribbean) and risky sexual behaviour. For this reason, tourists should be educated in STI transmission and regional STI and HIV incidences both before and during their travels; public health systems ought to work together with travel agencies, international airports, etc., in order to distribute this information and ensure a responsible travel experience.
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22
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Ombere SO, Nyambedha EO, Bukachi SA. Wimbo: implications for risk of HIV infection among circumcised fishermen in Western Kenya. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2015; 17:1147-1154. [PMID: 25774858 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2015.1018949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Medical male circumcision has been shown to reduce the risk of heterosexual transmission of HIV infection in men by up to 60% in three randomised controlled trials. However, not much anthropological literature exists to provide a holistic understanding of sexual behaviour among migrating fishermen who have been circumcised. This qualitative study used cultural ecology theory and anthropological methods to develop a more holistic understanding of Luo fishermen's sexual behaviour after circumcision when they migrate (wimbo) to islands in western Kenya. Results from focus-group discussions show that during wimbo there is a deviation from community norms governing sexual expression, influenced by the belief that circumcision provides protection against HIV infection. Through the exchange of sex for fish, circumcised men access new sexual partners in the destination beaches and engage in risky sexual behaviours without any HIV prevention measures. The processes and practices associated with wimbo may therefore help explain why rates of HIV infection are increasing among fisherfolk despite new interventions to combat HIV. These results have relevant implications for HIV-related intervention and policy in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Abstract
Homosexuality is a global human phenomenon. Although the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from its list of disorders more than 35years ago, homophobia among physicians is still widely prevalent. Men who have sex with men (MSM) form a relatively new epidemiological risk group for STI. To perform correct management, clinicians evaluating men with male-male sex contacts for STI related complaints or STI screening must obtain a thorough sexual history. Emerging STI like lymphogranuloma venereum, hepatitis C, and multidrug resistant N. gonorrhea strains have been described first in MSM. STI related proctitis often occur in MSM. Within the MSM population, HIV positive patients form a special group affected by STI related diseases, such as anal carcinoma and neurosyphilis. The final part of this review concludes with recommendations to reduce the STI burden in MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry J C de Vries
- STI Outpatient Clinic, Cluster of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Dermatology, Academic Medical Center, Post Office Box 22700, 1100 DE, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Centre for Infection and Immunity Amsterdam (CINIMA) Academic Medical Centre University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Centre for Infectious Diseases Control National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (CIb/RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
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24
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Shepherd SM, Shoff WH. Vaccination for the expatriate and long-term traveler. Expert Rev Vaccines 2014; 13:775-800. [DOI: 10.1586/14760584.2014.913485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Croughs M, Remmen R, Van den Ende J. The effect of pre-travel advice on sexual risk behavior abroad: a systematic review. J Travel Med 2014; 21:45-51. [PMID: 24354921 DOI: 10.1111/jtm.12084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Travelers often have casual sex abroad and the risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted infection (STI) associated with casual travel sex is considered to be threefold higher compared to the risk of casual sex in the home country. Consequently, international guidelines recommend including STI advice in the pre-travel consultation. We performed a systematic review on the effect of a pre-travel STI intervention on sexual risk behavior abroad. METHODS In September 2012, a systematic analysis and meta-analysis of peer reviewed literature were performed on the relation between pre-travel STI advice for travelers and sexual risk behavior abroad. Primary outcome measure consisted of the number of travelers with a new sexual partner abroad; secondary outcome measure entailed the proportion of consistent condom use. RESULTS Six studies were identified for inclusion in the review, of which three clinical trials on the effect of a motivational intervention compared to standard pre-travel STI advice qualified for the meta-analysis. Two of these trials were performed in US marines deployed abroad and one in visitors of a travel clinic. The extensive motivational training program of the marines led to a reduction in sexual risk behavior, while the brief motivational intervention in the travel clinic was not superior to standard advice. The meta-analysis established no overall effect on risk behavior abroad. No clinical trials on the effect of a standard pre-travel STI discussion were found, but a cohort study reported that no relation was found between the recall of a nonstructured pre-travel STI discussion and sexual risk behavior, while the recall of reading the STI information appeared to be related to more consistent condom use. CONCLUSIONS Motivational pre-travel STI intervention was not found to be superior to standard STI advice, while no clinical trials on the effect of standard pre-travel STI advice were found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieke Croughs
- Department of General Health, GGD Hart voor Brabant,'s-, Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands; Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Chen LH, Leder K, Wilson ME. Business travelers: vaccination considerations for this population. Expert Rev Vaccines 2013; 12:453-66. [PMID: 23560925 DOI: 10.1586/erv.13.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Illness in business travelers is associated with reduced productivity on the part of the employee as well as the employer. Immunizations offer a reliable method of preventing infectious diseases for international business travelers. The authors review the travel patterns of business travelers, available data on illnesses they encounter, their potential travel-associated risks for vaccine-preventable diseases and recommendations on immunizations for this population. Routine vaccines (e.g., measles, tetanus and influenza) should be reviewed to assure that they provide current coverage. The combined hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccine with a rapid schedule offers options for those with time constraints. Other vaccine recommendations for business travelers need to focus on their destinations and activities and underlying health, taking into account the concept of cumulative risk for those with frequent travel, multiple trips or long stays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin H Chen
- Travel Medicine Center, Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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27
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Pierre CM, Lim PL, Hamer DH. Expatriates: special considerations in pretravel preparation. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2013; 15:299-306. [PMID: 23784665 PMCID: PMC7089152 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-013-0342-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Expatriates comprise a diverse set of travelers who face unique medical, psychiatric, and non-health-related risks as a result of increased exposure to host country environment and associated lifestyle. Expatriates have an increased risk of developing malaria, gastrointestinal disorders, latent tuberculosis, vaccine-preventable infections, and psychological disorders, when compared with other travelers, yet the majority of existing pretravel guidelines have been designed to suit the needs of nonexpatriates. Although greater interest in expatriate health issues has led to improved characterization of illness in this population, expatriate-specific risk mitigation strategies-including modifications to chemoprophylaxis recommendations, limiting tuberculosis exposure, and prevention of occupational or sexual blood-borne virus transmission-are poorly described. Occupations and destinations affect travel-related disease risk and should inform the pretravel consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra M Pierre
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, 1 Boston Medical Center Way, Boston, MA, 02118, USA,
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28
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Borborema-Alfaia APBD, Freitas NSDL, Astolfi Filho S, Borborema-Santos CM. Chlamydia trachomatis infection in a sample of northern Brazilian pregnant women: prevalence and prenatal importance. Braz J Infect Dis 2013; 17:545-50. [PMID: 23831212 PMCID: PMC9425139 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjid.2013.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2012] [Revised: 01/02/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
There are limited data regarding prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection among northern Brazilian pregnant women. Objective The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of chlamydial infection among pregnant women in their third trimester and to determine the repercussion of this infection on their offspring. Methods In the first phase of this study 100 pregnant women receiving prenatal care in a local public university hospital were examined to assess the prevalence of genital C. trachomatis infection by polymerase chain reaction technique. In the second phase, 88 pregnant women were prospectively evaluated for premature rupture of membranes, puerperal consequences associated with chlamydial infection, and neonates were checked for low-birth weight. Results The prevalence rate of chlamydial infection was 11%, and 72.7% of the positive participants were predominantly less than 30 years of age (p = 0.1319). A total of 36.4% of the participants had premature rupture of membranes (p = 0.9998). Neither low-birth weight infants nor preterm delivery were observed. A cohort of 16 newborn babies were followed-up up to 60 days of life to ascertain outcome: 50% had respiratory symptoms. Neonates born to infected mothers had a higher risk to develop respiratory symptoms in the first 60 days of life. Conclusion The scarcity of data about the effects of chlamydial infection on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes justified this study. Diagnosing and treating chlamydial infection during the third trimester of pregnancy may prevent neonate infection. Therefore, preventive screening should be seen as a priority for early detection of asymptomatic C. trachomatis infection as part of local public health strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula B de Borborema-Alfaia
- Hospital Universitário Getúlio Vargas, Manaus, AM, Brazil; Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Biotechnology Division, Universidade Federal do Amazonas (UFAM), Manaus, AM, Brazil
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Schmidt AJ, Hickson F, Weatherburn P, Marcus U. Comparison of the performance of STI screening services for gay and bisexual men across 40 European cities: results from the European MSM Internet Survey. Sex Transm Infect 2013; 89:575-82. [PMID: 23744961 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2012-050973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as anal/genital warts, syphilis and genital/rectal gonorrhoeal/chlamydial infections compromise the health of men who have sex with men (MSM). Rectal bacterial STIs increase the per-contact risk of HIV infection. Early detection of asymptomatic STIs requires regular screening including collection of clinical specimens (or, for warts: physical examinations) that allow for the detection of infections at sites common to men's same sex practices. METHODS From June to August 2010, the European MSM Internet Survey recruited 174,209 men from 38 European countries to an anonymous online questionnaire in 25 languages. As sexual healthcare for MSM in most countries is organised locally, we chose cities for comparison. Multivariable regression models were used to compare accessibility of services and applied diagnostic procedures across 40 cities. RESULTS The proportion of respondents tested for STIs in the last 12 months in the absence of symptoms ranged from 8.9% in Istanbul to 48.0% in Amsterdam. At city level, low STI screening correlated with inaccessible services (R2=44.1%). At individual level, anal/penile inspection and anal swabbing was most common in U.K. cities, Amsterdam, Dublin and Stockholm. Compared to London, MSM in 30 cities had an adjusted OR (AOR) of (0.02 to 0.18) for anal swabbing; and (0.06 to 0.25) for anal/penile inspection (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Anal/genital warts and rectal infections are likely to be profoundly underdiagnosed among MSM in most European cities. This has implications for the sexual health of MSM, HIV prevention and comparing national surveillance data. There is an urgent need to improve sexual healthcare tailored to MSM at risk for STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel J Schmidt
- Sigma Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, , London, UK
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Short-term mobility and the risk of HIV infection among married couples in the fishing communities along Lake Victoria, Kenya. PLoS One 2013; 8:e54523. [PMID: 23336005 PMCID: PMC3545885 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0054523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 12/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Mobility has long been associated with high HIV prevalence. We sought to assess sex differences in the relationship between mobility and risk for HIV infection among married couples in the fishing communities. Methods We conducted 1090 gender-matched interviews and rapid HIV testing with 545 couples proportionally representing all the different sizes of the fish-landing beaches in Kisumu County. We contacted a random sample of fishermen as our index participants and asked them to enrol in the study together with their spouses. The consenting couples were separated into different private rooms for concurrent interviews and thereafter reunited for couple rapid HIV counselling and testing. In addition to socio-economic and behavioural data, we collected information on overnight travels and divided couples in 4 groups as follows both partners not mobile, both partners mobile, only woman mobile, and only man mobile. Other than descriptive statistics, we used X2 and U tests to compare groups of variables and multivariate logistic regression to measure association between mobility and HIV infection. Results We found significant differences in the number of trips women travelled in the preceding month (mean 4.6, SD 7.1) compared to men (mean 3.3, SD 4.9; p<0.01) and when the women did travel, they were more likely to spend more days away from home than their male partners (mean 5.2 [SD 7.2] versus 3.4 SD 5.6; p = 0.01). With an HIV prevalence of 22.7% in women compared to 20.9% among men, mobile women who had non-mobile spouses had 2.1 times the likelihood of HIV infection compared to individuals in couples where both partners were non-mobile. Conclusion The mobility of fishermen’s spouses is associated with HIV infection that is not evident among fishermen themselves. Therefore, interventions in this community could be a combination of sex-specific programming that targets women and combined programming for couples.
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Zimmermann R, Hattendorf J, Blum J, Nüesch R, Hatz C. Risk perception of travelers to tropical and subtropical countries visiting a swiss travel health center. J Travel Med 2013; 20:3-10. [PMID: 23279224 DOI: 10.1111/j.1708-8305.2012.00671.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2012] [Revised: 07/15/2012] [Accepted: 07/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study assessed the risk perception ratings of travelers pre- and post-travel and in comparison to the ratings by travel health experts. While most surveys on travel health knowledge, attitudes, and practices focus on malaria and vaccine-preventable diseases, noninfectious travel risks were included in this study. METHODS Pre- and post-travel perception of nine travel-associated health risks was recorded among 314 travelers to tropical and subtropical destinations. All travelers sought pre-travel health advice at the Travel Clinic of the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute in 2008 and 2009. In addition, 18 Swiss travel health experts provided an assessment of the respective risks. A validated visual psychometric measuring instrument was used [pictorial representation of illness and self measure (PRISM)]. RESULTS Travelers and experts rated most risks similarly, except for accidents and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) which experts rated higher. Compared to other risks, accidents ranked highly in both groups and were the only risk perceived higher after travel. Pre- and post-travel perceptions of all other risks were similar with a tendency to be lower after travel. Travelers perceived mosquitoes to be the highest risk before travel and accidents after travel. CONCLUSION Travelers' risk perception appears to be accurate for most risks stated in this study. However, travel health professionals should be aware that some perception patterns among travelers regarding travel-related health risks may be different from professional risk assessment. Important but insufficiently perceived health risks, such as sexual behavior/STIs and accidents, should be considered to be part of any pre-travel health advice package.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalie Zimmermann
- Departments of Medicine and Diagnostics, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.
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Fong I. Urbanization and Infectious Diseases: General Principles, Historical Perspectives, and Contemporary Challenges. CHALLENGES IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2012. [PMCID: PMC7119955 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-4496-1_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
In 2009, a major demographic line was crossed: for the first time in history, the majority of the world population lived in cities rather than in towns and countryside (Fig. 4.1). This shift has been occurring over the past 100 years, with the most rapid rate of urban growth occurring over in the latter half of the twentieth century. Urban centers in the more developed regions of the world (i.e., North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe) experienced earlier growth in the 1920s–1950s, and since then, the rapid rate of urban growth has been concentrated in the cities and towns of developing nations [1].
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Affiliation(s)
- I.W. Fong
- Room 4179 CC, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Bond Street 30, Toronto, M5B 1W8 Ontario Canada
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Benotsch EG, Martin AM, Espil FM, Nettles CD, Seal DW, Pinkerton SD. Internet use, recreational travel, and HIV risk behaviors in men who have sex with men. J Community Health 2011; 36:398-405. [PMID: 20924778 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-010-9321-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have documented higher rates of HIV risk behavior in gay and bisexual men traveling for leisure. Most of these studies collected data in high-risk tourist areas known for promoting alcohol and other substance use. The present study sampled a broader range of men by collecting data at a Gay Pride celebration, and asking participants about vacation experiences over the past 12 months. We also collected information about men's use of the Internet to find sexual partners before they traveled. Overall, two-thirds of participants reported recreational travel in the previous year. Of these men, 17% reported having sex with a new partner during their most recent vacation. Forty-three percent of the respondents were sexually active during their vacation. Sexually-active participants reported a mean of 2.01 unprotected anal sex acts during their brief vacation stay (M = 6.2 days). Close to half of the sexually-active men reported having sex with a partner of unknown HIV status. Alcohol and drug use were associated with unprotected sex. Men who used the Internet to set up dates prior to travel reported significantly more sexual partners and were significantly more likely to report having sex with a new partner. Many gay and bisexual men on vacation report behaviors that may place their health at risk, including substance use and unprotected sexual activity. Interventions designed to reduce risk behaviors in this population are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric G Benotsch
- Virginia Commonwealth University, PO Box 842018, Richmond, VA, 23284-2018, USA,
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Pavli A, Maltezou HC. Travelling to Greece for the summer 2011 Special Olympics. Travel Med Infect Dis 2011; 9:135-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2011.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2011] [Revised: 03/12/2011] [Accepted: 04/02/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Dahlgren AL, Deroo L, Avril J, Bise G, Loutan L. Health risks and risk-taking behaviors among International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) expatriates returning from humanitarian missions. J Travel Med 2009; 16:382-90. [PMID: 19930377 DOI: 10.1111/j.1708-8305.2009.00350.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess self-reported health risk and risk-taking behavior of humanitarian expatriates. METHODS A self-administered anonymous questionnaire was completed by International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) expatriates returning during May 2003 to September 2004, covering perceived health status before and after mission, malaria prevention, prevalence of exposure to stress, accidents and violence, and risk-taking behaviors. FINDINGS More than one-third (36.4%) reported worse health on return from the mission. A third (35%) of expatriates returning from Sub-Saharan Africa excl. South Africa reported not having followed ICRC's recommendation on taking malaria prophylaxis in spite of stating a high degree of awareness of the risks and availability of effective drugs. Over 40% reported the mission having been more stressful than expected, mostly due to the working environment; 10% reported injury or accidents and 16.2% exposure to at least one act of violence. Almost one-third of the respondents reported having engaged in casual sexual relationships. Of these, 64% reported using condoms at every sexual contact, and women reported lower usage of condoms than men. Many (27%) reported involvement in risk-taking behavior. CONCLUSION This study shows that humanitarian aid workers experience significant worsening of their health during overseas missions. Many are at risk of experiencing violence, accidents, or injuries. Despite awareness of the risks, many expatriates engage in behaviors that could endanger their health. Improved selection of expatriate staff, training programs emphasizing areas of concern, strengthening social support locally, and follow-up in field may help to alleviate these problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atti-La Dahlgren
- Division of International and Humanitarian Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Pommier de Santi V, Ollivier L, Texier G, Haus-Cheymol R, Morand JJ, Boutin JP, Deparis X. [Sexual exposure to HIV in the French armed forces between 2005 and 2007]. Ann Dermatol Venereol 2009; 136:775-82. [PMID: 19917429 DOI: 10.1016/j.annder.2009.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2009] [Accepted: 09/01/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-occupational HIV exposure in the French forces has been placed under epidemiological surveillance since 2000. This surveillance programme provides an indirect indicator of risky sexual behaviour among military personnel. PATIENTS AND METHODS All cases of non-occupational exposures in French military personnel that meet the notification criteria, wherever they occur, are reported by a military physician, with data being collected from 2005 to 2007. RESULTS Between January 2005 and December 2007, 2241 cases of sexual exposure within the French forces were filed. The annual incidence was 214.3 per 100,000 with an average patient age of 26 years. Sexual exposures concerned men in 99.2% of cases and occurred overseas in 92.9% of cases. Partners were sex-workers in 66.7% of cases. Failure to use condoms adequately during sexual intercourse was reported in 15.5% of cases. In cases where condoms were used, exposure to HIV resulted either from condom rupture or slippage. Postexposure HIV prophylaxis was prescribed in 70.5% of cases. DISCUSSION The majority of cases of sexual exposure reported in the French armed forces involved high risk of HIV transmission. However, since the beginning of surveillance in 2000, no cases of HIV seroconversion have been reported following postexposure antiretroviral prophylaxis. The non-occupational postexposure prophylaxis strategy is not in question.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Pommier de Santi
- Institut de médecine tropicale du service de santé des armées, IRBA, département d'épidémiologie et santé publique, allée du Médecin-Colonel-Eugène-Jamot, parc du Pharo, BP 60, 13262 Marseille cedex 07, France.
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Relationships between female tourists and male locals in Cuzco/Peru: implications for travel health education. Travel Med Infect Dis 2009; 7:350-8. [PMID: 19945012 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2009.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2009] [Revised: 08/31/2009] [Accepted: 09/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health concerns regarding casual sexual encounters during travel have been recognized for some time. The perception that female travellers' motivations are more romantic rather than sexual when entering a relationship with local men may exclude them from receiving appropriate travel health advice. This may pose even greater health risks, not only to themselves but also to their local partners. METHOD This paper presents 11 Western female tourists' perceptions of their relationships with local men in Cuzco/Peru, based on in-depth interviews, observations, and informal discussions. RESULTS Relationships with local men were often triggered by their physical appearance. Other themes identified were: methods and location of first contact, benefits for the local men, safe sex/condom use, and travel health advice received. CONCLUSIONS The findings support calls for more emphasis on sexual health in travel health education. Three aspects should be included: 1) an awareness that unfamiliar environment can cause 'out of character' behaviour, 2) an emphasis on not only to use but to not stop using condoms, and 3) the need to acquire negotiation skills.
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Kaufman MR, Fuhrel-Forbis AR, Kalichman SC, Eaton LA, Cain D, Cherry C, Pope HL. On holiday: a risk behavior profile for men who have vacationed at gay resorts. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2009; 56:1134-1144. [PMID: 19882431 DOI: 10.1080/00918360903275534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Sexual risk behavior is higher when people vacation as compared to when they are at home. The current study uses survey data to compare sexual risk behavior of gay men who vacation at gay resorts to those who do not. Independent predictors of vacationing at gay resorts included income level, relationship status, ever having attended a circuit party, and HIV serostatus. For men who visit resorts to meet sex partners, independent predictors included relationship status, ever having attended a circuit party, HIV serostatus, number of male sex partners in the past six months, and number of anal insertive male partners using a condom. These results show a need for the development of structural interventions in the gay resort and hotel setting.
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Fever After a Stay in the Tropics: Clinical Spectrum and Outcome in HIV-Infected Travelers and Migrants. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2008; 48:547-52. [DOI: 10.1097/qai.0b013e31817bebc5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Hamer DH, Ruffing R, Callahan MV, Lyons SH, Abdullah ASM. Knowledge and use of measures to reduce health risks by corporate expatriate employees in western Ghana. J Travel Med 2008; 15:237-42. [PMID: 18666923 DOI: 10.1111/j.1708-8305.2008.00214.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expatriate corporate workers stationed in remote regions of developing countries with limited health care resources are at substantial risk for a variety of infectious diseases. METHODS A survey was carried out among expatriates working at a large power plant construction site in western Ghana in 1998 to evaluate their use of pretravel medical services, current knowledge, and behavioral practices in relation to food- and waterborne disease prevention, diarrhea, malaria, respiratory infections, alcohol use, and high-risk sexual activity. An anonymous, structured, and pretested questionnaire was used. RESULTS The response rate was 42 of 60 (70%). Most respondents were men (39 of 42, 93%) with previous international construction experience. Adherence to food and water safety recommendations decreased with time. Expatriates (15 of 23, 65%) from developed countries reported at least one episode of diarrhea, whereas no expatriates (0 of 9) from resource-poor countries reported diarrhea (p < 0.001). Use of malaria chemoprophylaxis deteriorated with increasing duration of time on the job site. None of the expatriates (0 of 9) who had been on the site for more than a year was still taking an antimalarial compared to those who had been there for 3 months or less (13 of 16) (p < 0.01). Forty-three percent (18 of 42) of the respondents reported having had a respiratory infection in the past 3 months. Only 38% (15 of 39) received preplacement education on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risk. A higher proportion of those who received pretravel HIV education used condoms always (4 of 5) than those who did not receive HIV education (1 of 5). DISCUSSION The use of health advice and preventive measures was generally low among the expatriate corporate survey respondents. Adherence to preventive measures declined with the increase in length of stay. Corporations need to develop appropriate health promotion strategies targeting their expatriates in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davidson H Hamer
- Center for International Health and Development, Department of International Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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Fricker M, Steffen R. Travel and public health. J Infect Public Health 2008; 1:72-7. [PMID: 20701848 PMCID: PMC7102744 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2008.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2008] [Revised: 10/23/2008] [Accepted: 10/24/2008] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing international travel and migration can interfere with public health in both the country of destination and back home. The revised International Health Regulations (IHR) and travel disease sentinel networks are means to protect public and individual health. Public health risks related to infectious disease are higher in mass gatherings, in travellers visiting friends and relatives and in sexual encounters away from home. In contrast, in-flight transmission of infections plays only a limited role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Fricker
- Division of Epidemiology and Prevention of Communicable Diseases, WHO Centre for Travellers Health, cc Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Zurich, Hirschengraben 84, CH-8001 Zurich, Switzerland
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Croughs M, Van Gompel A, de Boer E, Van Den Ende J. Sexual risk behavior of travelers who consulted a pretravel clinic. J Travel Med 2008; 15:6-12. [PMID: 18217863 DOI: 10.1111/j.1708-8305.2007.00160.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine to which degree travelers who received pretravel advice at a travel clinic have protected or unprotected sexual contact with a new partner and what factors influence this behavior. METHOD An anonymous questionnaire was sent to travelers who came to a pretravel clinic between June 1 and August 31, 2005. Risk factors for casual travel sex and predictors of protected sex were studied in a multivariate model. RESULTS A total of 1,907 travelers were included (response rate 55%) in the study. Only 4.7% of the respondents had sexual contact with a new partner, and 63.1% of these new partners were from the country of destination. Of those who had casual travel sex, 52.4% did not expect this (women 75%), 30.9% did not always use condoms, and 41% were not protected against hepatitis B. Independent risk factors for casual travel sex were traveling without steady partner (OR 14.4), expecting casual travel sex (OR 9.2), having casual sexual contacts in the home country (OR 2.4), non-tourist journeys (OR 2.2), being male (OR 2.1), the fact that the information on sexually transmitted infections (STI) had been read (OR 2.0), and traveling to South and Central America (OR 2.0). Taking condoms along (OR 5.4) and reading the information on STI (OR 3.3) were identified as independent predictors of protected sex. CONCLUSIONS Travelers have substantial sexual risk behavior. Casual sex is usually not expected, and the most important predictor is traveling without a steady partner. We would advice every client of a travel clinic who will travel without a steady partner to read the STI information, to take condoms along, and to be vaccinated against hepatitis B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieke Croughs
- Department of General Health Care, STI Clinic and Travel Clinic, GGD Hart voor Brabant, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands.
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Rey M. [Travelling epidemics]. ANTIBIOTIQUES (PARIS, FRANCE : 1999) 2007; 9:226-232. [PMID: 32288533 PMCID: PMC7146837 DOI: 10.1016/s1294-5501(07)73918-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We have to become aware of the current development of international travels which has contributed to amplify circulation of all sorts of infectious agents. We will describe the current situation. OBSERVATIONS Infectious agents are carried by means of travellers, immigrants, as well as by animals, goods and merchandise. The distribution of infections potentially responsible for epidemics tends to become worldwide and some of them are emergent diseases. SOLUTIONS Such a situation imposes enhancement of international surveillance and development of resources for control and response to alerts. Developed countries possess most advanced equipments and interventional structures: they are those which may intervene predominantly in the fight against epidemics. The necessary contribution of these industrialized countries is increasing in developing countries in which infectious epidemics are spreading and such intervention must be sustained. The content of the article is a review of major threatening infectious epidemic diseases with the contribution of personal experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Rey
- Professeur honoraire à la Faculté de Médecine de Clermont-Ferrand (maladies infectieuses et tropicales)
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Bhadelia N, Klotman M, Caplivski D. The HIV-positive traveler. Am J Med 2007; 120:574-80. [PMID: 17602926 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2007.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2006] [Revised: 02/05/2007] [Accepted: 02/05/2007] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy has led to a substantial increase in the life expectancy and quality of life for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients. Increasingly, physicians are asked to counsel them before international travel to regions in which infectious diseases are more prevalent. The pretravel evaluation requires an accurate assessment of the patient's level of immune compromise as well as an understanding of the risks involved in travel to tropical countries. We review the safety and efficacy of travel medicine-related vaccines, important considerations when selecting antimalarial prophylaxis, and strategies for management of traveler's diarrhea. The prevention of sexually transmitted infections while abroad also is an important public health intervention for both the traveler and the potential sexual partners abroad. Beyond the health-related issues in international travel, HIV-positive patients may confront some significant legal hurdles in crossing international borders. We provide guidance in navigating the diverse and complex issues that arise for the HIV-positive traveler.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahid Bhadelia
- Samuel Bronfman Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA
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