scholarly journals A Survey on Knowledge, Prevention, and Occurrence of Sexually Transmitted Infections among Freshmen from Four Italian Universities

2022 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 897
Author(s):  
Luca Cegolon ◽  
Melania Bortolotto ◽  
Saverio Bellizzi ◽  
Andrea Cegolon ◽  
Luciano Bubbico ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sexually Transmitted Infections ◽  
Sexual Behaviors ◽  
Nuclear Family ◽  
Multivariable Analysis ◽  
Educational Interventions ◽  
Relative Risk Ratio ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Sexually Transmitted ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
The University

Background. The peak of sexually transmitted infections (STI) among adolescents/young adults suggests a low level of prevention. In order to assess whether the level of sexual health education (SHE), received by several channels, was effective at improving sexual behaviors, we conducted a survey among freshmen from four Italian universities. Methods. This observational cross-sectional study was conducted with an anonymous self-reported paper questionnaire, administered during teaching lectures to university freshmen of the northern (Padua, Bergamo, and Milan campuses) and southern (Palermo campus) parts of the country. Knowledge of STI (a linear numerical score), knowledge of STI prevention (dichotomous variable: yes vs. no) and previous STI occurrence (polytomous variable: “no”; “don’t know”; “yes”) were the outcomes in the statistical analysis. Results. The final number of freshmen surveyed was 4552 (97.9% response rate). The mean age of respondents was 21.4 ± 2.2 years and most of them (70.3%) were females. A total of 60% of students were in a stable romantic relationship. Only 28% respondents knew the most effective methods to prevent STI (i.e., condom and sexual abstinence), with a slightly higher prevalence of correct answers among females (31.3%) than males (25.8%). Students with history of STIs were 5.1%; they reported referring mostly to their general practitioner (GP) (38.1%) rather than discussing the problem with their partner (13.1%). At multivariable analysis, a significantly higher level of STI knowledge was observed in older students (25+ years of age), biomedical students, and those from a non-nuclear family; lower levels were found among students of the University of Palermo, and those who completed a vocational secondary school education. Those who had less knowledge about the most effective tools to prevent STIs included males, students from the University of Palermo, students registered with educational sciences, economics/political sciences, those of foreign nationality, and those whose fathers had lower educational levels. The risk of contracting STI was significantly lower only in students not in a stable relationship (relative risk ratio, RRR = 0.67; 95% confidence interval, 95%CI = 0.48; 0.94), whereas such risk was significantly higher in students with higher STI knowledge (RRR = 1.15; 95%CI = 1.08; 1.22). Discussion and Conclusions. University freshmen investigated in this study had poor knowledge of STIs and their prevention. Unexpectedly, those with higher levels of knowledge had an increased risk of STIs. There were no educational interventions—with good quality and long-term follow-ups—that increased the confidence that such SHE programs could have population level effects. A new high-quality study is therefore required to assess the effectiveness of an intervention generating behavioral changes; increasing only knowledge may not be sufficient.

Risky sexual behavior and sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men and purchase sex attending an Israeli sexually transmitted infection clinic

2019 ◽  
Vol 31 (3) ◽  
pp. 236-243 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rivka S Rich ◽  
Alex Leventhal ◽  
Rivka Sheffer ◽  
Zohar Mor
Keyword(s):  
High Risk ◽  
Sexually Transmitted Infections ◽  
Sexual Behaviors ◽  
Risky Sexual Behavior ◽  
Laboratory Data ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Transmitted Infection ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Sexually Transmitted ◽  
Sex With Men

Men who have sex with men (MSM) and purchase sex (MPS) are a sub-group potentially at high risk for acquiring and transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This is a hard-to-reach population resulting in a scarcity of studies covering the issue. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the association between purchasing sex and high-risk behaviors related to HIV/STI transmission and appraise the STI prevalence among MSM. All MSM who attended the STI clinic in Tel Aviv between 2003 and 2010 were included. Demographics, behavioral, clinical, and laboratory data were compared between MPS and non-MPS to identify high-risk sexual behaviors and STI prevalence associated with purchasing sex. Of the first visits of 2694 MSM who attended the STI clinic during the study period, 151 (5.6%) paid for sex. MPS were more commonly older and married than non-MPS. MPS were more likely to engage in behaviors associated with high risk for HIV/STI transmission, including infrequent condom use during anal sex, substance use during sex, and selling sex themselves. MPS had a higher STI prevalence than non-MPS, although this was not statistically significant ( p = 0.05). These findings highlight the need to establish culturally tailored interventions for MPS addressing the potential risks associated with purchasing sex.

scholarly journals Sexual behaviors and awareness of sexually transmitted infections among Chinese university students

2013 ◽  
Vol 7 (12) ◽  
pp. 966-974 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dangui Zhang ◽  
Hui Pan ◽  
Binglin Cui ◽  
Frieda Law ◽  
Jeremy Farrar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Online Education ◽  
University Students ◽  
Sexually Transmitted Infections ◽  
Sexual Behaviors ◽  
Anal Intercourse ◽  
Sexually Active ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Sexually Transmitted ◽  
Chinese University ◽  
Chinese University Students

Introduction: This study investigated the current state of attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge concerning sex and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among Chinese university students. Methodology: A cross-sectional anonymous university intranet-based survey was given to students attending the Shantou University, Guangdong, China using a 28-item questionnaire. Results: Of 3425 website visitors, 1030 university students completed the survey, of which 80% were between 20 and 25 years of age, 76% considered pre-marital sex acceptable, 21% had had sexual intercourse, and 45% of sexually active students had engaged in oral sex, anal intercourse, or sex with strangers. Students had limited knowledge and awareness about common STIs, symptoms, and complications. Three percent of the sexually active students reported having had STIs and another 8% were not sure whether they had or not. Most students had misconceptions about transmission and prevention of STIs. The internet was the main information resource for 76% of students. Conclusions: Despite having more open attitudes and behaviors towards sex, students’ STI knowledge and awareness of STI risks was considerably limited, raising concerns about a likely rise in STI incidence. Prior knowledge of STIs had no significant influence. Targeted educational measures such as online education and counseling via Chinese websites and social media, and the provision of safer sex and STI-related information by health experts to university students are suggested.

Risk behaviors for sexually transmitted infections in noninjecting drug users: A cross-sectional study

2018 ◽  
Vol 29 (7) ◽  
pp. 658-664 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rafael A Guimarães ◽  
Luiz HB Monteiro ◽  
Sheila A Teles ◽  
Inaina L Fernandes ◽  
Aurélio G Rodovalho ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sexually Transmitted Infections ◽  
Risk Behaviors ◽  
Drug Dependence ◽  
Drug Users ◽  
Multivariable Analysis ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Exchange Sex ◽  
Sexually Transmitted

The objective of this study was to investigate risk behaviors for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in noninjecting drug users (NIDUs), using STI diagnosis history as an indicator. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 323 NIDUs of two facilities for alcohol and/or drug dependence treatment in the Goiás State, Central Brazil. All participants were interviewed about risk behaviors and STI history. Multivariable analysis was performed in order to identify predictors of STIs. Adjusted prevalence ratio (APR) with confidence intervals of 95% was obtained using a Poisson regression model. Prevalence of self-reported STIs in the previous 12 months was 25.4% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 21.0–30.4%). A multivariable model verified that age (APR: 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00–1.01), sexual contact with partners diagnosed with STIs (APR: 1.27; 95% CI: 1.12–1.45) and injecting drug users (IDUs) (APR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.01–1.31), exchange sex for money and/or drugs (APR: 1.12; 95% CI: 1.02–1.21), and a history of sexual violence (APR: 1.04; 95% CI: 1.04–1.32) were predictors of STIs. Elevated rates of STI history and risk behaviors were observed in NIDUs, supporting the vulnerability of this group for these infections. Public policies and health outreach should be intensified in this population, principally regular STI testing of individuals in treatment for drug dependence and their sexual partners.

scholarly journals Social and Behavioral Correlates of Sexually Transmitted Infections among Men who Have Sex with Men who Use Alcohol in the San Francisco Bay Area

2021 ◽  
Vol 15 (3) ◽  
pp. 155798832110268
Author(s):  
Jennifer P. Jain ◽  
Akua O. Gyamerah ◽  
Glenda N. Baguso ◽  
Carol Dawson-Rose ◽  
Janet Ikeda ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sexually Transmitted Infections ◽  
San Francisco ◽  
Sexual Behaviors ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Hiv Status ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Sexually Transmitted ◽  
Logistic Regression Models ◽  
The Past ◽  
Sex With Men

The risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) is driven by various socio-behavioral factors. From 2015-2017, 247 MSM ≥ 18 years-old who reported alcohol use in the past year, were recruited into a cross-sectional study in San Francisco. Participants completed a survey assessing socio-demographics, substance use and treatment, sexual behaviors, HIV status and self-reported STI diagnosis in the past 6 months. Multivariable logistic regression models stratified by HIV status were used to identify the correlates of STIs. Of 247 MSM, the prevalence of bacterial STIs were: gonorrhea (12.9%), chlamydia (9.3%) and syphilis (6.0%). Among 177 MSM living without HIV, factors significantly associated with recent STI diagnosis were: current pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use (aOR = 3.53, 95% CI: 1.42–8.75, p ≤ .01), popper use during sex in the past 6 months (aOR = 3.16, 95% CI = 1.34–7.47, p ≤ .01) and a history of alcohol treatment (aOR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.04–0.68, p = .01). Also, in a sensitivity analysis (removing PrEP), any receptive condomless anal sex was independently associated with recent STI diagnosis (aOR = 2.86, 95% CI = 1.15–7.08, p = .02). Among 70 MSM living with HIV, factors significantly associated with recent STI diagnosis were: White race/ethnicity (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 7.36, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.48–36.62, p = .01), younger age (aOR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.84–0.97, p < .01) and a higher number of male sexual partners in the past 6 months (aOR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.00–1.06, p = .02). Sexual health interventions that address the unique needs of MSM living with and without HIV who use alcohol in San Francisco are needed to reduce STI acquisition and transmission.

scholarly journals PRACTICES FOR THE PREVENTION OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

2020 ◽  
Vol 29 ◽  
Author(s):  
Raquel Conceição de Almeida Ramos ◽  
Thelma Spindola ◽  
Claudia Silvia Rocha Oliveira ◽  
Elizabeth Rose Costa Martins ◽  
Giselle da Silva Figueiredo Lima ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
University Students ◽  
Sexually Transmitted Infections ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Sexual Practices ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Significance Level ◽  
Steady Partner ◽  
Sexually Transmitted ◽  
The University

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the sexual practices adopted by university students for the prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections Method: a quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional study, conducted in 2016, at a private university in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A convenience sample was selected, stratified by gender, of 768 students who answered a self-administered questionnaire, structured with variables of sociodemographic characterization and related to knowledge about sexually transmitted infections, sexual practices, prevention practices and care with sexual health. In the analysis, descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and analysis of variance were used, with a significance level of 5%. Results: most of the university students ‒ 654 (85.16%) ‒ had an active sex life and 480 (62.54%) did not use condoms in all their sexual encounters. Among the participants, 509 (84.83%) said they had sexual intercourse with a steady partner, of which 224 (44.01%) used a condom. In the investigated group, 313 (47.86%) had relationships with casual partners, with 199 (63.58%) reporting having used a condom. Among the participants, 174 (26.61%) had their sexual practices classified as adequate/satisfactory. Conclusion: the findings show that the university students investigated present a risk behavior for Sexually Transmitted Infections due to inadequate/unsatisfactory sexual practices. Health education actions should consider cultural and individual aspects of the group in order to encourage reflection on practices for the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.

scholarly journals Sexual Behaviors and Vulnerability to Sexually Transmitted Infections in Transgender Women

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Azar Nematollahi ◽  
Safoora Gharibzadeh ◽  
Maryam Damghanian ◽  
Saeid Gholamzadeh ◽  
Farnaz Farnam
Keyword(s):  
Sexually Transmitted Infections ◽  
Sexual Satisfaction ◽  
Sexual Behaviors ◽  
Sexual Debut ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Transgender Women ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Sexually Transmitted ◽  
Counseling Interventions ◽  
Stis And Hiv

Abstract Background: It is essential to pay special attention to sexual health of transgender women. The aim of this study was to assess sexual behaviors and vulnerability of transgender women to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including AIDS.Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted using convenient sampling from August 2019 to march 2020 in Iran. 127 transgender women participated in this study .A researcher-made questionnaire was applied for evaluating sexual behaviors, STIs and HIV. Results: The mean age of participants and their age of sexual debut were 27.6 and 16.9, respectively. 92.1% of participants were single with experience of sex and 59.3% had one sex partner in the last 2 years. 96.9% of the participants were heterosexual with 67.2% reporting experiencing orgasm in at least 50% of their sexual intercourse. However, 42.5% reported dyspareunia and the same percentage reported low or very low sexual satisfaction. The majority of participants had little knowledge of the symptoms (33.9%) and complications (44.1%) of STIs. Although 87.4% and 72.4% of participants had never been tested for a STI and HIV, 1.6% were infected with HIV and 18.1% with STIs. Conclusion: Sexual interests of Iranian transgender women were aligned with those of cisgender women. In terms of sexual function, despite the higher rate of orgasm in transgender women, sexual satisfaction was lower in them compared to that of cisgender women due to dyspareunia and body dissatisfaction, which highlights the need to investigate for more effective surgeries and specific sexual counseling interventions in this group.

scholarly journals Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and associated factors among the University of Gondar students, Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

2019 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Belayneh Ayanaw Kassie ◽  
Hedja Yenus ◽  
Resom Berhe ◽  
Eskeziaw Abebe Kassahun
Keyword(s):  
University Students ◽  
Sexually Transmitted Infections ◽  
Previous History ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Northwest Ethiopia ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Multiple Sexual Partners ◽  
Sexually Transmitted ◽  
History Of ◽  
The University

Abstract Introduction Globally, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a major public health problem. University students tend to practices sex which predisposes them to sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies, and unsafe abortions due to their freedom from families. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and associated factors among the University of Gondar students, northwest Ethiopia. Methods An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted on 845 the University of Gondar students selected using the multistage sampling technique from March 7–10, 2016. The data were collected using a structured, pre-tested self-administered questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed through SPSS version 20 to identify factors associated with sexually transmitted infections. Odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was computed to determine the level of association. In the multivariable analysis, variables with p-value less than 5% were considered as statistically significant association between covariates and sexually transmitted infections. Result Sexually transmitted infections among university students were found to be 18.20% (95%CI,15.40,20.80). Previous history of sexually transmitted infections (AOR = 2.1; 95%CI: 1.04, 4.38), multiple sexual partners in life (AOR = 2.7; 95%CI:1.70, 4.40), not use of condoms during sexual intercourses (AOR = 2.4; 95%CI:1.50,3.75) and poor knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (AOR = 3.3; 95%CI:1.09,5.32) were significantly associated with sexually transmitted infections. Conclusion The prevalence of STIs was high among university students. The previous history of sexually transmitted infections, multiple sexual partners, not using condoms during sexual intercourse and poor knowledge of sexually transmitted infections were found to be associated with the infections. Opening and strengthen reproductive health centers on the campuses, popularizing sexual, and reproductive health information and education, particularly on STI modes of transmission, prevention, and health-seeking behaviors, and providing information on accessing of condoms is recommended to reduce sexually transmitted infections.

scholarly journals Transactional Sex between Men and Its Implications on HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Nigeria

2017 ◽  
Vol 2017 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eniola A. Bamgboye ◽  
Titilope Badru ◽  
Afolabi Bamgboye
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Sexually Transmitted Infections ◽  
Sexual Behaviors ◽  
Male Partner ◽  
Hiv Prevalence ◽  
Transactional Sex ◽  
Sexually Transmitted ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Sex With Men

Introduction. Men who have transactional sex with men (MTSM) are known to be at higher risk for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study explored the risk factors associated with STI symptoms and HIV prevalence among men who have transactional sex with men in Nigeria. Methods. In 2014, a cross-sectional study, using respondent driven sampling technique, was carried out to recruit 3,172 MSM across eight states in Nigeria. Relevant information on sociodemographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, and self-reported symptoms of STI was obtained. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors for STI symptoms and HIV. Results. 38.2% of the MSM were involved in transactional sex. Prevalence of self-reported STI symptoms was higher among MTSM than other MSM, while HIV prevalence was higher among other MSM than MTSM. Identified factors associated with STI symptoms and HIV among MSTM were being single, alcohol consumption, oral sex, and history of rape by a male partner. Conclusion. Sexually transmitted infections are a significant challenge to men who have transactional sex with men. Adolescents and single men are more at risk of these infections. Youth empowerment needs to be invested on to avoid increased risk among these groups of people.

scholarly journals PRACTICES FOR THE PREVENTION OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

2020 ◽  
Vol 29 ◽  
Author(s):  
Raquel Conceição de Almeida Ramos ◽  
Thelma Spindola ◽  
Claudia Silvia Rocha Oliveira ◽  
Elizabeth Rose Costa Martins ◽  
Giselle da Silva Figueiredo Lima ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
University Students ◽  
Sexually Transmitted Infections ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Sexual Practices ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Significance Level ◽  
Steady Partner ◽  
Sexually Transmitted ◽  
The University

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the sexual practices adopted by university students for the prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections Method: a quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional study, conducted in 2016, at a private university in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A convenience sample was selected, stratified by gender, of 768 students who answered a self-administered questionnaire, structured with variables of sociodemographic characterization and related to knowledge about sexually transmitted infections, sexual practices, prevention practices and care with sexual health. In the analysis, descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and analysis of variance were used, with a significance level of 5%. Results: most of the university students ‒ 654 (85.16%) ‒ had an active sex life and 480 (62.54%) did not use condoms in all their sexual encounters. Among the participants, 509 (84.83%) said they had sexual intercourse with a steady partner, of which 224 (44.01%) used a condom. In the investigated group, 313 (47.86%) had relationships with casual partners, with 199 (63.58%) reporting having used a condom. Among the participants, 174 (26.61%) had their sexual practices classified as adequate/satisfactory. Conclusion: the findings show that the university students investigated present a risk behavior for Sexually Transmitted Infections due to inadequate/unsatisfactory sexual practices. Health education actions should consider cultural and individual aspects of the group in order to encourage reflection on practices for the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.

scholarly journals Safe sex practices among women who have sex with women in Tanzania: implications for HIV and STIs control among this group

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (9) ◽  
pp. 4210
Author(s):  
Happiness P. Saronga ◽  
Jackline V. Mbishi ◽  
Saidah M. Bakar ◽  
Switbert R. Kamazima ◽  
Saumu K. Shaaban ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Behaviors ◽  
Safe Sex ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Sexually Transmitted ◽  
Protective Devices ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Sex With Men ◽  
Sex Toys

Background: Women who have sex with women (WSW) are at an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to engagement in high-risk sexual behaviors. Safe sex practice is hence critical for the WSW. The aim of the study was to assess safe sex health behaviors and practices among WSW to inform sexual and reproductive interventions targeting this group in Tanzania.Methods: This study was cross-sectional descriptive and retrospective conducted in Dar-es-Salaam region, the largest commercial city in Tanzania. Study population included WSW aged 18 years and above who met inclusion criteria. Data was collected using focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, key informant interviews and life stories. Data analysis applied thematic analysis.Results: Few WSW reported practicing safe sex. WSW used condoms only when engaging in sex with men. Some WSW lacked information on availability of protective devices; while some WSW did not use of protection despite having information on availability of protective devices. Majority of WSW used good hygiene practice (cleaning body, vagina, mouth, and sex toys) before and after sex to prevent transmission of infections; and some WSW used pre- and post- exposure prophylaxes. Low access and high cost of protective devices, being in a monogamous relationship, low health risk perception, fear of developing cancer from using lubricants, and advise from health worker against using lubricants, were reasons given by WSW for not practicing safe sex.Conclusions: Given the current evidence of overlap between the homosexual and heterosexual populations in STI transmission, comprehensive education on potential routes of STI transmission among WSW is critical.

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