Prevalence and risk factors of sexually transmitted infections in the setting of a generalized HIV epidemic—a population-based study, western Kenya
-
Published:2024-01-19
Issue:
Volume:
Page:
-
ISSN:0956-4624
-
Container-title:International Journal of STD & AIDS
-
language:en
-
Short-container-title:Int J STD AIDS
Author:
Awuoche Hellen Carolyne1ORCID,
Joseph Rachael H2,
Magut Faith1,
Khagayi Sammy1,
Odongo Fredrick S1,
Otieno Moses1,
Appolonia Aoko2,
Odoyo-June Elijah2,
Kwaro Daniel O1
Affiliation:
1. Kenya Medical Research Institute-Centre for Global Health Research (KEMRI-CGHR), Kisumu, Kenya
2. United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Nairobi, Kenya
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause adverse health outcomes, including increasing HIV acquisition/transmission risk. We analyzed data from an HIV biomarker and behavioral survey to estimate STI prevalence, and explore associated factors in the setting of a generalized HIV epidemic in Siaya County, western Kenya. Methods Data were collected in March–September 2022 through face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires; records from 9643 sexually active participants aged 13+ years were included in the analysis. We calculated weighted self-reported STI prevalence, by sex, age, and HIV status and explored associated factors using multivariable logistic regression. Results Median age was 37 years and 59.9% were female; HIV prevalence was 18.0%. Overall STI prevalence was 1.8%; 1.5-fold higher among males vs. females, and 2.6-fold higher among participants living with HIV vs. those without. HIV status and multiple sexual partners were independently associated with STI in both sexes. Mind-altering substance use and being circumcised were associated with STI among males. Conclusions This study estimates STI prevalence in the setting of high HIV prevalence. Findings underscore the importance of: effective STI screening in HIV clinics and HIV testing and counseling in STI clinics; screening and counseling on substance use, and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis; and intensive sexual health counseling in male circumcision programmes.
Funder
President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief/US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Publisher
SAGE Publications
Subject
Infectious Diseases,Pharmacology (medical),Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health,Dermatology