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Ogutu GM, Chege SM. Early Sexual Debut and the Associated Factors among School Going Adolescents in Selected Schools in Kenya. East Afr Health Res J 2023; 7:219-227. [PMID: 39219653 PMCID: PMC11364202 DOI: 10.24248/eahrj.v7i2.734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Early sexual debut among adolescents' results in sexual and reproductive health consequences including unplanned pregnancies, pregnancy complications and sexually transmitted diseases. Objective This study investigated the factors influencing early sexual debut among 13-19 years old students in secondary schools in Kiambu County, Kenya. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in two secondary schools in Kiambu County. A sample of 208 was calculated using Fischer's two stage formula and proportionately distributed per school population size. Students in each school were stratified into classes and respondents were selected by simple random sampling from each stratum. Responses were sought using self-administered questionnaires. Results Among the respondents 11(66.5%), 48(28.7%) and 8(4.8%) were aged 13-15, below 13 and above 15 years, respectively. Eighty-four (50.2%) respondents were male, 105(62.9%) lived with both parents while 41(24.6%) lived with mothers. Early sexual debut was (60.5%), being higher in males, 57 (67.9 %) compared to females, 44 (39.6 %). More than half of the respondents, 117(69.6%), thought sex before marriage was appropriate, among whom 75(64.1%), have had sex. Most of those who reported sexual debut, 69.9%, said that sexual encounter happened during school breaks. Reasons for refraining included fear of guardian (49.4%) and fear of HIV/AIDS 89(52.7%). However, more than two thirds, 71(70.3%) of those who feared HIV/AIDS and STI as a consequence of early sexual debut have had sex. Gender (P=.032), knowledge on sex (P=.025), use of mobile phones (P=.019), peer pressure (P=.046) and poverty (P =.037) were significantly associated with early sexual debut. Conclusion A significant proportion of secondary school adolescents were engaged in early sexual debut. Thus, public health interventions should consider the broader determinants of early sexual debut, including the ecological factors in which the behavior occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Mauti Ogutu
- Department of Community Health and Development, The Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Scholastica Muthoni Chege
- Department of Community Health and Development, The Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
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Maatouk I, Assi M, Jaspal R. Predicting sexual risk and sexual health screening in a sample of university students in Lebanon: a cross-sectional study. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:593-599. [PMID: 33830876 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1899188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study focuses on factors that predict sexual risk behaviors and sexual health screening behaviors in a sample of university students in Lebanon. PARTICIPANTS A convenience sample of 250 undergraduate students was recruited at a private university in Beirut, Lebanon. METHODS Students completed measures of religiosity, psychological distress, contraceptives usage, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/sexually transmitted infections (STI) screening, and sexual risk behaviors. RESULTS Religiosity was negatively associated with a range of risky sexual behaviors whereas psychological distress was positively associated with these behaviors. Sex under the influence of alcohol/drugs, discussing methods of contraception, and engaging in sexual activities later regretted had significant effects on having had condomless vaginal sex. Gender (being female) and sex under the influence of alcohol had significant effects on STIs screening. CONCLUSION Interventions that focus on managing drug and alcohol use in students, unwanted pregnancy, religion, stigma related to screening, and sexual health education are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Maatouk
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, UK
| | - Moubadda Assi
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, UK
| | - Rusi Jaspal
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, UK
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Knowledge and attitude on sexually transmitted infections and contraceptive use among university students in Bhutan. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272507. [PMID: 35921369 PMCID: PMC9348698 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives
The unmet needs of contraception can lead to unintended pregnancy and transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STI). Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the contraception use, knowledge, and attitude on STI among students under Royan University of Bhutan (RUB).
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was developed in Google forms and the link was shared through the college WeChat groups. The questionnaire consisted of four parts on socio-demographic, sexual behaviour and contraceptive use, knowledge, and attitude on STIs. All the students under RUB were invited to participate voluntarily in this study. The socio-demography was presented in frequency and proportion.
Result
A total of 1,283 students participated in this survey and 55.0% (701) were females. Of this, 29.4% (377) were sexually active and 94.4% reported using modern contraception. Commonly used contraceptives were: condoms (83.8%, 316) and emergency contraceptives (20.6%, 78), respectively. The mean knowledge and attitude scores on STI were 9.94 (range 2–20) and 12 (range 2–14), respectively. Good knowledge and attitude on STI were reported in 53.2% (683) and 70.1% (899) of participants.
Conclusion
Students reported average knowledge and a good attitude towards STI. Contraceptive use among university students was low. There is a need to strengthen health education on STIs in schools and universities. All forms of contraceptives especially condoms should be made easily available to sexually active people.
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Kteily-Hawa R, Hawa AC, Gogolishvili D, Al Akel M, Andruszkiewicz N, Vijayanathan H, Loutfy M. Understanding the epidemiological HIV risk factors and underlying risk context for youth residing in or originating from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region: A scoping review of the literature. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0260935. [PMID: 34995320 PMCID: PMC8741013 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction HIV is the second leading cause of death among young people globally, and adolescents are the only group where HIV mortality is not declining. Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is one of few regions seeing rapid increase of HIV infections (31.0%) since 2001. MENA youth are at particular risk of HIV due to dearth of research and challenges in accessing services. Objective The purpose of this scoping review is to establish the epidemiological HIV risk factors and underlying risk context for youth residing in or originating from the MENA region. Methods Online database searches were conducted using combination of search terms. Screening 5,853 citations, published between 1990–2019 with age groups 16 to 29, resulted in 57 studies included across 18 MENA countries. Results ‘Key populations’ engage in risky behaviors, including: overlapping risky behaviors among youth who inject drugs (PWID); lack of access to HIV testing, condomless sex, and multiple sex partners among young men who have sex with men (MSM); and high and overlapping risk behaviors among young sex workers. Challenges facing other youth groups and bridging populations include: peer pressure, inhibition about discussing sexual health, lack of credible sex education sources, low condom use, and lack of access to HIV protection/prevention services, especially testing. Conclusion Poor surveillance coupled with scarcity of rigorous studies limit what is known about epidemiology of HIV among youth in MENA. Homophobia, stigma around PWID, and illegal status of sex work promote non-disclosure of risk behaviors among youth and curtail serving this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roula Kteily-Hawa
- Family Studies and Human Development Department, School of Behavioural and Social Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Aceel Christina Hawa
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Mohammad Al Akel
- Alliance for South Asian AIDS Prevention, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Mona Loutfy
- Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Lakkis NA, Osman MH, Abdallah RM. Cervix Uteri Cancer in Lebanon: Incidence, Temporal Trends, and Comparison to Countries From Different Regions in the World. Cancer Control 2022; 29:10732748211068634. [PMID: 35012377 PMCID: PMC8755921 DOI: 10.1177/10732748211068634] [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] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Invasive cervix uteri cancer is the fourth most common malignancy in women globally. This study investigates the incidence and trends of cervix uteri cancer in Lebanon, a country in the Middle East, and compares these rates to regional and global ones. Methods Data on cervix uteri were obtained from the Lebanese national cancer registry for the currently available years 2005 to 2016. The calculated age-standardized incidence and age-specific rates were expressed as per 100,000 population. Results From 2005 to 2016, cervix uteri cancer was the tenth most common cancer among women. Its age-standardized incidence rate fluctuated narrowly between 3.5 and 5.7 per 100,000, with the lowest rate in 2013 and the highest rate in 2012. The age-specific incidence rate had 2 peaks, the highest peak at age group 70–74 years and the second at age group 50–59 years. The annual percent change (+.05%) showed a non-statistically significant trend of increase. The age-standardized incidence rate of cervix uteri cancer in Lebanon was comparable to that of the Western Asia region that has the lowest incidence rate worldwide. The rate was intermediate as compared to other countries in the Middle East and North Africa Region and relatively similar to the ones in Australia, North America, and some Western European countries. Conclusion The incidence rates of invasive cervix uteri are low in Lebanon. This could be attributed to the low prevalence of human papilloma virus infection and other sexually transmitted infections among Lebanese women, and the opportunistic screening practices. It is important to adopt a comprehensive approach to decrease the potential burden of cervix uteri, especially with the rising patterns of risky sexual behaviors. This includes improving awareness, enhancing access to preventive services, developing clinical guidelines, and training health care providers on these guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najla A Lakkis
- Department of Family Medicine, 66978American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mona H Osman
- Department of Family Medicine, 66978American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Reem M Abdallah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 66984American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), Beirut, Lebanon
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Koletić G, Landripet I, Tafro A, Jurković L, Milas G, Štulhofer A. Religious faith and sexual risk taking among adolescents and emerging adults: A meta-analytic review. Soc Sci Med 2021; 291:114488. [PMID: 34662764 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Although there is some evidence that religious faith may offer protection against sexual risk taking in adolescence and emerging adulthood, no attempts have been made to systematically quantify the association. OBJECTIVE Using data from studies conducted in the 2000-2020 period, this meta-analysis aimed to estimate the link between religious faith and four sexual risk-taking behaviors in samples of adolescents and emerging adults. METHODS Five different search systems were used to conduct a systematic literature search in April 2020. Studies that contained quantitative data on religious faith and at least one indicator of sexual risk taking (age at sexual debut, number of sexual partners, condom use at most recent sexual intercourse, and consistent condom use) were searched for. In total, 35 articles published in peer-reviewed journals, in English, were identified. Random-effects meta-analytic approach was used to assess target associations among 41,758 adolescents and emerging adults (Mage = 18.9 years, 37% male). To estimate the effect across the four risk indicators, we employed robust variance estimation (RVE) method. RESULTS We found small associations between religious faith on the one hand and age at sexual debut (r = 0.08, 95% CI = 0.03, 0.12) and the number of sexual partners on the other hand (r = -0.15, 95% CI = -0.21, -0.09). No association with condom use was observed. With all studies included, the overall effect size was 0.11 (95% CI = 0.06, 0.16), indicating a small (protective) role of religious faith in young people's sexual risk taking. CONCLUSIONS Considering the limited role of religious faith in young people's sexual and reproductive health, comprehensive sexuality education remains essential for risk-reduction, even among more religious young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Koletić
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ivan Landripet
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Azra Tafro
- Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Luka Jurković
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Milas
- Institute of Social Sciences Ivo Pilar, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Aleksandar Štulhofer
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Assessment of the World Food Programme summer camps in Lebanon: a model of effective interventions for vulnerable adolescents. Br J Nutr 2021; 125:1416-1426. [PMID: 32943132 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114520003682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The World Food Programme (WFP) offers yearly health and nutrition summer camps hosting vulnerable Syrian and Lebanese children and aiming at improving physical, mental and social well-being while contributing to better social cohesion. The present study aimed to assess the 2019 WFP summer camps' effectiveness in reaching the intended outcomes and to provide recommendations for improvement. A multi-method approach using (1) quantitative student pre-/post-surveys (n 443), (2) focus group discussions and (3) key informant interviews and surveys (n 42) was adopted. Mean test results showed improvements in nutrition (4·79 (sd 1·9) v. 5·34 (sd 2·7); t(269) = 4·51, P = 0·000) and life skills knowledge (4·97 (sd 1·9) v. 5·55 (sd 2); t(294) = 4·52, P = 0·000) but no improvement in health knowledge and social cohesion scores. Qualitative data revealed positive changes in social cohesion and an increase in health knowledge. In addition, there was a positive attitude towards the summer camps from students, instructors and administrators specifically regarding the integrated content, snacks and atmosphere of fun and learning. The main weaknesses identified were the short time to prepare for the camps, shortage in instructor training and short camp duration. There were also points of debate regarding sexual and reproductive health-related topics and how they should be delivered. All in all, the camps were shown to be a commendable initiative for incorporating an integrated and holistic approach in the support of education and development among vulnerable children and adolescents.
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Hanna J, Yassine R, El-Bikai R, Curran MD, Azar M, Yeretzian J, Skaf R, Afif C, Saber T, Itani S, Hubeish M, El Jisr T, Hamzeh F, El Chaar M. Molecular epidemiology and socio-demographic risk factors of sexually transmitted infections among women in Lebanon. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:375. [PMID: 32460721 PMCID: PMC7251815 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05066-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause a major public health problem that affect both men and women in developing and developed countries. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of 11 STIs among women who voluntarily participated in the study, while seeking gynecological checkup. The existence of an association between the presence of pathogens and symptoms and various sociodemographic risk factors was assessed. METHODS A total of 505 vaginal and cervical specimens were collected from women above 18 years of age, with or without symptoms related to gynecological infections. Nucleic acid was extracted and samples were tested by real-time PCR for the following pathogens: Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma genitalium, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Urealplasma parvum, Trichomonas vaginalis, Mycoplasma hominis, Mycoplasma girerdii, Gardnerella vaginalis, Candida albicans and Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Positive HPV samples underwent genotyping using a microarray system. RESULTS Of the 505 samples, 312 (62%) were screened positive for at least one pathogen. Of these, 36% were positive for Gardnerella vaginalis, 35% for Ureaplasma parvum, 8% for Candida albicans, 6.7% for HPV, 4.6% for Ureaplasma urealyticum, 3.6% for Mycoplasma hominis, 2% for Trichomonas vaginalis, 0.8% for Chlamydia trachomatis, 0.4% for Mycoplasma girerdii, 0.2% for Mycoplasma genitalium and 0.2% for Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Lack of symptoms was reported in 187 women (37%), among whom 61% were infected. Thirty-four samples were HPV positive, with 17 high risk HPV genotypes (HR-HPV); the highest rates being recorded for types 16 (38%), 18 (21%) and 51 (18%). Out of the 34 HPV positives, 29 participants had HR-HPV. Association with various risk factors were reported. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study that presents data about the presence of STIs among women in Lebanon and the MENA region by simultaneous detection of 11 pathogens. In the absence of systematic STI surveillance in Lebanon, concurrent screening for HPV and PAP smear is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Hanna
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, P.O.Box 166378 Ashrafieh, Beirut, 1100-2807, Lebanon
| | - Ruba Yassine
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, P.O.Box 166378 Ashrafieh, Beirut, 1100-2807, Lebanon
| | - Rana El-Bikai
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, P.O.Box 166378 Ashrafieh, Beirut, 1100-2807, Lebanon
| | - Martin D Curran
- Public Health England Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mathilde Azar
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, P.O.Box 166378 Ashrafieh, Beirut, 1100-2807, Lebanon
| | - Joumana Yeretzian
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, P.O.Box 166378 Ashrafieh, Beirut, 1100-2807, Lebanon
| | - Rana Skaf
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Balamand, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint George Hospital University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Claude Afif
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Balamand, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Toufic Saber
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Balamand, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | | | | | - Fadia Hamzeh
- National Institution of Social Care and Vocational Training, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mira El Chaar
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, P.O.Box 166378 Ashrafieh, Beirut, 1100-2807, Lebanon.
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Barragán V, Berenzon S, Tiburcio M, Bustos M, Villatoro J. Factors Associated with Sexual Debut in Mexican Adolescents: Results of the National Survey on Drug Use among Students in 2014. J Sex Med 2020; 16:418-426. [PMID: 30846115 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although first sexual experience (understood as first sexual intercourse) is one of the most commonly assessed characteristics of adolescents, recent research emphasizes the importance of understanding other related social factors. This study highlights factors associated with first sexual experience in a nationally representative sample of adolescent students in Mexico. AIMS The goals of this study were (i) to determine the proportion of adolescents aged 12-17 who had had their first sexual experience; (ii) to identify the factors associated with first sexual experience; and (iii) to analyze the conditions (condom use, substance use) in which first sexual experience takes place. METHOD The data presented in this study are drawn from the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use in Students (Spanish acronym ENCODE), undertaken with the purpose of identifying the prevalence of drug use and associated variables, including sexual activity, in Mexican students. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate the probability of first sexual experience at a given age, taking sex as an outcome variable and age as a follow-up period. Logistic regression was used to assess possible factors for sexual initiation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Validated standard questionnaires were used to assess sociodemographic characteristics, first sexual experience (framed as first sexual intercourse), frequency of sexual relations, sexual partners, sexual preference (framed as preferred sex of partners), substance use, having a physical illness or a behavioral problem, condom or other contraceptive use, as well as the absence or presence of parents, parents' educational attainment, and parents' substance use. RESULTS A total of 26,187 students aged 12-17 participated. Of this total, 14.8% had already had their first sexual experience, at a median age of 15; 64.5% used some type of contraceptive, and 53.2% used condoms. Proportional probabilities for having first sexual experience using age as a follow-up period showed that the probability of having sex earlier was higher among boys than girls: the probability of having sex at age of 15 was 26.5% for boys and 13.9% for girls. Predictors of first sexual experience included substance use (alcohol OR = 2.5, tobacco OR = 2.6, and other drugs OR = 2.3), having a mother who used drugs (OR= 2.2), sexual preference (female homosexual, OR = 2.2), and sex (male, OR = 2.1). CONCLUSIONS Boys are more likely to have had a first sexual experience than girls. Future strategies should incorporate specifically targeted elements with different messages that consider adolescents' sex and age. Barragán V, Berenzon S, Tiburcio M, et al. Factors Associated with Sexual Debut in Mexican Adolescents: Results of the National Survey on Drug Use among Students in 2014. J Sex Med 2019;16:418-426.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Barragán
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health. School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Shoshana Berenzon
- Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz National Psychiatry Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Marcela Tiburcio
- Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz National Psychiatry Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Marycarmen Bustos
- Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz National Psychiatry Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jorge Villatoro
- Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz National Psychiatry Institute, Mexico City, Mexico.
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Pourmohammadi B, Jalilvand MA. Prevalence of alcohol consumption and related factors among students of higher education centers in one of the northeastern cities of Iran. AIMS Public Health 2020; 6:523-533. [PMID: 31909072 PMCID: PMC6940569 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2019.4.523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Knowing the prevalence and the factors associated with alcohol abuse among students can be an important step in initiating preventive measures. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of alcohol consumption and its related factors in students of higher education centers in one of the northeastern cities of Iran in 2017. Methods This descriptive-analytical study was performed on 668 students from 7 higher education centers. The samples were selected by stratified random sampling. The valid researcher-made questionnaires were issued to the subjects, and were collected immediately after being filled out. The obtained data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests. Results Ninety-two (13.77%) students had history of alcohol consumption, with 55.6% continued to drink alcohol. The mean age of the consumers was 23.92 years, of whom 77.41% were male, 75% were single, 55.43% were non-indigenous, and 74.46% had history of smoking. 81.52% of the subjects were undergraduates, while 36.95% studied mathematics and engineering. There was a significant relationship between alcohol consumption and age, gender, GPA, being non-indigenous, personal residence, smoking, history of alcohol consumption in family and friends, satisfaction with academic major and city in which they study (p < 0.05). Conclusion The findings showed that alcohol consumption was relatively high in students of higher education centers and many variables (ten out of fifteen studied variables) were involved in this process. Therefore, careful planning and serious measures are needed to prevent this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behrad Pourmohammadi
- Research Center for Health Sciences and Technologies, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Moahammad Ali Jalilvand
- Student Research Committee, School of Management and Medical Information Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Prevalence of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections and their association with sexual practices and substance use among 2238 MSM in Lebanon. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15142. [PMID: 31641252 PMCID: PMC6806001 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51688-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
UNAIDS report documents 95% increase in new HIV infections among key populations in Eastern Europe and Middle East and North Africa region. Data on HIV and STIs among MSM in Lebanon is still scarce. Therefore, the aim was to assess prevalence of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Lebanon and associations with sexual practices and substance-use. 2238 MSM attended a sexual health clinic in Lebanon between 2015-2018. Demographics, substance-use and sexual practices were collected. Attendees tested for HIV and other STIs. HIV infection was diagnosed in 5.6% of the sample. Only 19% received sexual health education from reliable sources (school/university/healthcare workers), 78% reported having multiple partners in the past three months (2-5 partners: 58%, 6+: 20%) and 67% reported inconsistent condom-use. Moreover, 40% of HIV + cases were returning attendees who already received information about condom-use. Additionally, having only a school level education (11%) increases the odds of having inconsistent condom-use with casual partners (adj.OR:1.9, p < 0.001). The results reflect the urgent need for: (1) accurate and comprehensive sexual health and harm reduction education and promotion in Lebanon; (2) making pre-exposure prophylaxis available for free to key populations to contain the epidemics at an early stage.
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Zahlan L, Khauli N, Khoury B. Sexual health services in the Arab region: Availability, access, and utilisation. Glob Public Health 2019; 15:485-496. [PMID: 31640471 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2019.1682029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Sexual health is shaped by cultural, economic, and social norms in society. In the Arab region, cultural sensitivities and taboos surrounding sexuality are prominent and may prevent individuals from accessing and utilising sexual health services. It is important to map out available sexual health services to identify the challenges in availability, access, and treatment, and determine opportunities for improvement. We collected data on sexual health services through (1) relevant published and unpublished literature, (2) Arab media which included forums, websites, blogs and posts, and online surveys conducted in the Arab region, (3) a questionnaire emailed to sexual and reproductive health experts, organisations, clinics, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), (4) phone and in-person formal and informal interviews with sexual health experts in the field, and (5) advice and recommendations from sexual health experts attending a World Health Organization (WHO) consultation meeting in Dubai related to sexual health in the Arab region. Although there is significant progress when it comes to the availability and provision of sexual health services in Arab countries, there is still a lot to be done to ensure that appropriate needs are met. This study discusses the implication of findings to inform programme and policy implementation in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leona Zahlan
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicole Khauli
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brigitte Khoury
- Department of Psychiatry, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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Santos MJ, Ferreira E, Duarte J, Ferreira M. Risk factors that influence sexual and reproductive health in Portuguese university students. Int Nurs Rev 2017; 65:225-233. [PMID: 28617971 DOI: 10.1111/inr.12387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND University students have unprotected sex and associate alcohol and/or drugs with sexual practices. These behaviours are risk factors for influencing sexual and reproductive health that can be targeted by nursing interventions. AIM The aim of this study was to determine the risk and protective factors influencing sexual and reproductive risk-taking behaviours in university students. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional and correlational study in a sample of 1946 students. Data were collected using a self-report questionnaire on the individual, environmental, cognitive and psychosocial factors related to knowledge of sexually transmitted infections, attitude for sexual and reproductive health, subjective norms, Condom Use Self-Efficacy and Sexual Sensation Seeking scales. RESULTS Older male students were at higher risk for all risk behaviours studied. Students involved in committed relationships were at risk because of decreased condom use. Individuals who placed high importance on sexual sensation seeking were at increased risk. The higher the importance students placed on peers' opinion, the more protective their behaviours were. CONCLUSION The results of this study showed that university students are exposed to sexual risks. Individual, cognitive and psychosocial factors influence the risk-taking behaviours. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING AND HEALTH POLICY The findings of this study should be further incorporated into health care with nurses' leadership, adapting healthcare services to the specific needs of this population and promoting educational programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Santos
- Escola Superior de Enfermagem de Vila Real, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal.,Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - E Ferreira
- Faculdade de Psicologia e Ciências de Educação, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - J Duarte
- Escola Superior de Saúde de Viseu, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Researcher, Centro de Estudos em Educação, Tecnologias e Saúde (CI&DETS), Viseu, Portugal
| | - M Ferreira
- Escola Superior de Saúde de Viseu, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Researcher, Centro de Estudos em Educação, Tecnologias e Saúde (CI&DETS), Viseu, Portugal
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the interrelationships between risky health behaviors is critical for health promotion efforts. Conceptual frameworks for understanding substance misuse (e.g. stepping-stone models) have not yet widely incorporated other risky behaviors, including those related to sexual health. OBJECTIVES The goals of this study were to assess the relationship between early sexual debut and cannabis use, examine the role of licit substance use in this association, and evaluate differences by gender and race/ethnicity. METHODS Data came from the National Comorbidity Survey-Replication (NCS-R). Primary analysis was restricted to respondents who reported sexual debut at ≥12 years (n = 5,036). Age at sexual debut was categorized as early (<18 years), average (18 years) and late (>18 years). Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between age at sexual debut and cannabis use. Interaction terms were used to evaluate effect modification by gender and race/ethnicity. RESULTS Later age of sexual debut was associated with lower odds of cannabis use relative to the average age of debut (AOR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.37-0.66). For every year that respondents delayed their sexual debut, the relative odds of lifetime cannabis use declined by 17%. After accounting for alcohol and tobacco use the association between early sexual debut and cannabis was attenuated (AOR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.68-1.20), while later age of debut remained protective (AOR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.42-0.78). Results were generally consistent across race/ethnicity and gender. CONCLUSIONS Multifactorial intervention strategies targeting both sexual health and substance use may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Cha
- a Department of Family Medicine and Population Health , School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA
| | - Saba W Masho
- a Department of Family Medicine and Population Health , School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA.,b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine , Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA.,c Institute for Women's Health , Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA
| | - Briana Mezuk
- a Department of Family Medicine and Population Health , School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA.,d Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics , Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA
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