Lack of evidence of acute HEV infections as a sexually transmitted disease: Data from a German cohort of PrEP users

Abstract Background While the sexual transmissibility of HAV in MSM has been extensively described, the potential for sexual transmission of HEV has not been definitively established. Although HEV has been detected in the ejaculate of chronically infected men, studies among MSM PrEP users in France did not observe an elevated anti-HEV seroprevalence as an indicator of increased exposure risk by sexual intercourse. Patients and methods A total of 111 unselected PrEP users and 111 age- and sex-matched blood donors were tested for anti-HEV IgG, IgM and HEV (PCR). Of the participants 79/111 (71 %) responded to a questionnaire covering topics as sexual preferences, previous sexually transmitted diseases, profession, food consumption, and pet ownership. Results The anti-HEV IgG seroprevalence in PrEP users (22 %) did not differ significantly from the rate in controls (17 %). While one PrEP user and three controls tested positive for anti-HEV IgM, all PrEP users and controls tested PCR negative. Conclusion In immunocompetent individuals with frequent changes of sexual partners, the epidemiology of Hepatitis E Virus does not significantly involve the sexual transmission route.

Conocimiento y uso de anticonceptivos en relación con la diversidad sexual, Universidad Andrés Bello, 2022 / Knowledge and use of contraceptives regarding sexual diversity, Universidad Andrés Bello, 2022

Introducción: Los métodos anticonceptivos se han utilizado desde hace ya bastante tiempo. Han ido evolucionando con el paso de los años y existen diversos tipos, que satisfacen cada necesidad de los usuarios. Objetivo: Analizar el conocimiento y uso de métodos anticonceptivos (MAC) en la diversidad sexual de los alumnos de la Universidad Andrés Bello (UNAB) entre 18 y 25 años en el año 2022. Método: Estudio con un enfoque transversal cualitativo, llevado a cabo por medio de una encuesta realizada a los estudiantes de las tres sedes de la UNAB de entre 18 y 25 años, con un tamaño de muestra de 140 estudiantes. Resultados: Según las características sociodemográficas; la «edad» mantuvo un grupo control de 70 personas en ambas categorías; en «sede» el 87% de los encuestados pertenecía a la sede de Santiago; en «identidad de género» la mujer cisgénero con un 79% y en «orientación sexual» fueron las personas heterosexuales con un 47%. Conclusión: Existe una relación estadística entre las variables «uso de MAC» y «orientación sexual». También las variables de «orientación sexual» y «tipo de MAC», y «orientación sexual» con «frecuencia en el uso de preservativo interno y externo».

Background: Contraceptive methods have been used since a lot of time, which have been evolved over the years, having a lot of types satisfying every necessities of the users. Aim: Analyze the knowledge and use of contraceptive methods in the sexual diversity of Universidad Andrés Bello (UNAB) students between 18 and 25 years old in the year 2022. Method: Study with a cross sectional qualitative approach, carried out through a survey of students from the three campuses of UNAB between 18 to 25 years old with a sample size of 140 students. Results: According to sociodemographic characteristics; “Age” was maintained in the control group with 70 people in both categories; in “Campus” 87% of the surveyed belonged to the Santiago campus; in “Gender identity” the cisgender woman with 79% and “Sexual orientation” were straight people with 47%. Conclusion: There is a statistical relationship between the variables “Use of contraceptive methods” and “Sexual orientation”. Also, the variables of “Sexual orientation” and “Type of contraceptive methods”, and “Sexual orientation” with “Frequency in use of internal and external preservative”.

Prevalencia de infección por Chlamydia trachomatis y relación con el perfil de conductas sexuales en adolescentes y mujeres jóvenes de la Provincia de Osorno, Chile

Introducción: La infección por Chlamydia trachomatis es la ITS bacteriana más frecuente del mundo. En el cervix se presenta mayormente de forma asintomática y afecta especialmente a mujeres jóvenes y adolescentes. Puede producir daño permanente en el tracto reproductor femenino, se asocia a parto prematuro, infecciones neonatales transmitidas vía vertical y mayor riesgo de adquirir otras ITS como VIH Y VPH. Por estos motivos se han establecido estrategias de tamizaje para detectar y tratar precozmente la infección asintomática por C. trachomatis en diferentes países. En nuestro país no contamos con un programa nacional de tamizaje. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de infección asintomática por Chlamydia trachomatis en mujeres entre 12 y 21 años de la Provincia de Osorno, Región de Los Lagos, Chile. Pacientes y Métodos: Se desarrolló un estudio de diseño transversal con una cohorte única de mujeres adolescentes y jóvenes consultantes en el Policlínico de Alto Riesgo Obstétrico y de Ginecología Infantil y Adolescente, del Hospital Base de Osorno, entre enero de 2019 y enero 2020. Se determinó el estado de infección asintomática mediante RPC en tiempo real para C. trachomatis. Se realizó una encuesta a fin de determinar características demográficas, hábitos y conductas sexuales de las pacientes estudiadas. Resultados: Fueron reclutadas 124 mujeres entre 12 a 21 años de edad, de las cuales, 36 (29,3%) se encontraban embarazadas al momento del estudio. La prevalencia de infección asintomática por C. trachomatis fue de 14/124 (11,3%). En las mujeres gestantes se encontraron 6/36 (16,7%) casos positivos de infección por C. trachomatis y 8/88 (9,1%) en las no gestantes. Existe una mayor frecuencia de infección asintomática a menor edad de inicio de actividad sexual (33,3% en aquellas que inician entre 11-12 años vs. 16,2% en las que inician entre 1314 años, 7,4% entre 15-16 y 8% entre 17-21 años; p < 0,05). Esta tendencia no fue observada al comparar el estado de infección con el tiempo de vida sexual activa. Sólo 15,7% de las pacientes utilizó preservativo en todas sus relaciones sexuales. Discusión: La infección asintomática por C. trachomatis es frecuente en las mujeres adolescentes y jóvenes sexualmente activas. Las pacientes con inicio más temprano de la actividad sexual coital (bajo 13 años de edad) podrían estar en mayor riesgo. Se requiere con urgencia establecer la frecuencia nacional de infección para desarrollar una estrategia sanitaria para su pesquisa y manejo oportuno en nuestro país.

Background: Chlamydia trachomatis infection is the world most common bacterial STI. At uterine cervix it presents mostly asymptomatically and especially affects young women and adolescents. It can cause permanent damage to the female reproductive tract and is associated with premature birth, connatal infections and increased risk of acquiring other STIs such as HIV and HPV. For these reasons, other countries have established screening strategies to detect and treat asymptomatic C. trachomatis infection. Our country don't have a national screening program. Aim: To determine the prevalence of C. trachomatis asymptomatic infection in adolescent and young women in Osorno province, Los Lagos Region, Chile. Methods: A crosssectional study was performed in adolescent and young women who consult at Hospital Base Osorno in the MaternoFetal and PediatricAdolescent Gynecology ambulatory clinics, between January 2019 and January 2020. The status of asymptomatic infection was determined by PCR for C. trachomatis. A survey was carried out to determine the demographic characteristics, habits and sexual behaviors. Results: 124 women between 12 and 21 years of age were recruited, of which 36 (29,3%) were pregnant at the time of the study. The prevalence of asymptomatic infection by C. trachomatis was 11.3.%. In pregnant women, there were 6/36 (16.7%) positive cases for C. trachomatis and 8/88 (9.1%) in nonpregnant women. We found a higher frequency of asymptomatic infection at younger age of first sexual intercourse (33% in adolescents at 11-12 years old vs. 16.2% at 13-14, 7.4% at 15-16 and 8% at 17-21; p<0.05). Only 15.7% of the patients utilized condoms in all their intercourses. Discussion: Asymptomatic C. trachomatis infection is common in adolescent and young women, with a higher risk in those who onset sexual activity at an early age (less than 13 years old). It is urgently required to determine the national frequency of asymptomatic C. trachomatis infection to develop a national strategy for screening and timely treatment.

Description of a specialized outpatient clinic as a reference center for children and adolescents living with HIV/AIDS in southern Brazil / Descrição de um ambulatório especializado referência em crianças e adolescentes vivendo com HIV/AIDS no sul do Brasil

Introduction: Children living with HIV/AIDS require specialized care. Objective: To describe clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients living with HIV/AIDS. Methods: Observational, descriptive study using medical records data of patients with HIV/AIDS under 14 years of age. Approved by the institution's Ethics Committee under number 1,432,517. Results: 60 cases were included; the median follow-up duration was 6.8 years; 50.0% were male; 88.3% were white; 75.0% were from the capital and metropolitan region. Prenatal records were available for 51 cases, but only 44.6% received antiretroviral therapy (ART) during pregnancy (mean duration of 3.3 months). HIV diagnosis was based on clinical symptoms in 28.3% of the cases, occurring in similar proportions for both childhood common infections and opportunistic infections. According to the CDC clinical classification (1994), at the start of follow-up, 56.6% of patients had moderate or severe symptoms, which would be reduced to only 18.3% upon reclassification at the last visit (p=0.016). Initially, 41.7% showed evidence of immunosuppression, compared to 19.9% at the time of the study (p=0.5). Only 6.6% remained asymptomatic. A decrease in the average number of hospitalizations was observed during follow-up. Conclusion: Among the cases diagnosed based on clinical symptoms, half were attributed to common childhood infections and lacked immunosuppression

Introdução: Crianças que vivem com o vírus da imunodeficiência humana ­ HIV/AIDS requerem atendimento especializado. Objetivo: Descrever características clínicas e epidemiológicas de pacientes que vivem com HIV/AIDS. Métodos: Estudo observacional, descritivo, com dados de prontuários de pacientes com HIV/AIDS de até 14 anos de idade incompletos, aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da instituição sob o número 1.432.517. Resultados: Foram incluídos 60 casos. A mediana de acompanhamento foi de 6,8 anos; 50,0% eram do sexo masculino; 88,3% brancos; 75,0% naturais da capital e região metropolitana. Em 51 prontuários havia descrição de pré-natal, porém apenas 44,6% fizeram uso de terapia antirretroviral (TARV) na gestação (tempo médio de 3,3 meses). Em 28,3% o HIV foi pesquisado por sintomas clínicos, que ocorreram em proporções similares tanto por infecções habituais da infância como por oportunistas. De acordo com a classificação clínica dos Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ­ CDC (1994), ao início do acompanhamento, 56,6% dos pacientes apresentavam sintomas moderados ou graves e, na última consulta, se fossem reclassificados, seriam apenas 18,3% (p=0,016). Incialmente, 41,7% apresentavam evidência de imunossupressão, comparativamente aos 19,9% na ocasião do estudo (p=0,5). Apenas 6,6% permaneceram assintomáticos. Com o acompanhamento, verificou-se diminuição na média do número de hospitalizações. Conclusão: Dos casos que apresentaram seu diagnóstico por sintomas clínicos, metade foi por infecções habituais da infância e sem imunossupressão

Comparison of ARIMA models with and without covariates in the prediction of HIV infection among young students in Dalian / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To compare the effect of ARIMA models with and without covariates in predicting the number of HIV infections among young students in Dalian. Methods First, univariate correlation analysis was performed on the network, STD sequence and HIV sequence to understand whether there was a correlation and lag relationship between them. Secondly, variables with the strongest correlation and predictive value and HIV infection numbers were used as the baseline data to establish an ARIMA model with covariates and a general ARIMA model without covariates, and to predict the HIV number from 2019 to 2021. The average absolute errors were used as evaluation indexes to compare the prediction effects of the two models. Results A total of 841 cases of HIV infection among young students were reported in Dalian from 2013 to 2021. The results of univariate correlation analysis showed that the search index of the keyword AIDS in the Baidu Index in a given month from 2013 to 2019 was significantly positively correlated with the number of HIV infections in that month (r=0.302, P=0.006), and gonorrhea was negatively correlated with the number of HIV infections with a lag of 2 months (r=-0.250, P =0.024). Using gonorrhea incidence number and HIV infection number as the basic data, an ARIMA model with covariates and a general ARIMA model without covariates were established to predict the number of HIV infection among young students from 2019 to 2021, and the average absolute errors were 17.621% and 66.17%, respectively. Conclusion Compared with the general ARIMA model without covariates, the ARIMA model based on the combined use of STD incidence and HIV infection is more suitable for predicting the number of HIV infections among young students in Dalian, but the average absolute error of the model is still large, which needs further improvement in the future research.

Distribución de virus de papiloma humano de alto riesgo oncogénico y otras infecciones de transmisión sexual en mujeres paraguayas con y sin virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana

El virus de papiloma humano de alto riesgo oncogénico (VPH-AR) es causa necesaria pero no suficiente para la ocurrencia de cáncer de cuello uterino (CCU). Mujeres portadoras del virus de inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) presentan mayor riesgo de desarrollar lesiones precursoras del cáncer de cuello de útero, por ello, el objetivo del presente trabajo prospectivo de corte transversal fue determinar la frecuencia de VPH-AR y otras infecciones de transmisión sexual-ITS (condilomas, sífilis, virus del herpes simple, gonorrea, citomegalovirus, hepatitis B) en 218 mujeres con y sin VIH que acudieron al Programa Nacional de Lucha contra el SIDA (PRONASIDA) desde julio 2017 hasta marzo 2021. Se encontró que 16/54 (29,6%) mujeres VIH-positivas presentaron infección por VPH-AR en comparación a 41/164 (25%) mujeres VIH-negativas (p>0,05). En relación a la edad, mujeres VIH positivas presentaron una frecuencia comparable de infección por VPH-AR (30 años 30,2%), a diferencia de mujeres VIH negativas donde hubo una disminución significativa de la infección por VPH-AR luego de los 30 años (30 años 18,8%, p= 0,028). Esto podría explicarse por la inmunosupresión observada en mujeres VIH positivas que podría favorecer infecciones persistentes, sugiriendo que deben ser controladas más cercanamente. Además, se observó mayor frecuencia de otras ITS en mujeres VIH positivas (29,6% vs 15,8%, p=0,026), lo cual sugiere que aparte del monitoreo más cercano, es fundamental fortalecer la educación sobre factores de riesgo para la ITS sobre todo VPH y VIH, así como la realización de prevención primaria por vacunación contra el VPH.

High-risk human papillomavirus (HPV-HR) is a necessary but not sufficient cause for cervical cancer (CC). Women carriers of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) present an increased risk for the development of cervical cancer precursor lesions, therefore, the objective of the present prospective cross-sectional study was to determine the frequency of HPV-HR and other sexually transmitted infections-STIs (condylomas, syphilis, herpes simplex virus, gonorrhoea, cytomegalovirus, hepatitis B) in 218 women with and without HIV who attended the Ministry of Health from July 2017 to March 2021. It was found that 16/54 (29.6%) HIV-positive women had HPV infection compared to 41/164 (25%) HIV-negative women (p>0.05). In relation to age, HIV-positive women had a comparable frequency of HPV infection (30 years 30.2%), unlike HIV-negative women whom above 30 years of age presented a significant decrease in HPV-AR infection (30 years 18.8%, p:0.028). This could be explained by the immunosuppression observed in HIV-positive women which could favour persistent infections, suggesting that they should be controlled more closely. In addition, other STIs were observed to be more frequent in HIV-positive women (29.6% vs 15.8%, p:0.026), which suggests that apart from closer monitoring, it is essential to strengthen education on risk factors for STIs, especially HPV and HIV, as well as the implementation of primary prevention by vaccination against HPV.

A Critical Review on Thermo-Sensitive Vaginal Gel for the Foundation of Preparing Thermo-Sensitive Vaginal Gel of PVK (Panchvalkal Kashaya) Extract

RTI (Reproductive Tract Infection) is the vital cause of suffering in women and neonates. According to WHO estimation 340 million new cases of curable STI (Sexually Transmitted Disease) other than HIV/AIDS occurs every year, most of which are occurring in developing countries. Genital tract infection is the prime cause of most gynaecological disease. Vaginal candidiasis is the most common cause of Genital tract infection. It (Vaginal candidiasis) is a common condition and up to 75% of all women suffer at least one episode of this infection during their life time. For treating the pathological condition of genital tract, direct application or self application of medicine is very difficult and the residence time of the medicine is less due to self cleansing properties of vaginal canal. Application of the drug in other route may cause systemic adverse reaction. To overcome this arduous situation, in situ thermo-sensitive gel form has great importance. In this article an attempt have been made for the review of the thermo-sensitive vaginal gel and the scholar has gathered the basic knowledge to develop an Ayurvedic formulation Panchavalkal kashaya thermo-sensitive vaginal gel by this review. This work will be done in School of Pharmaceutical Science, Shoolini University, Solan, HP.

Conhecimentos, percepções e itinerários terapêuticos de travestis e mulheres trans no cuidado a infecções sexualmente transmissíveis em Salvador, Brasil / Knowledge, perceptions and therapeutic itineraries of travestis and transgender woman in the care of sexually transmitted infections in Salvador, Brazil / Conocimientos, percepciones e rutas terapéuticas de travestis y mujeres trans en la atención de enfermedades de transmisión sexual en Salvador, Brasil

Resumo O artigo objetivou analisar conhecimentos, percepções, práticas de cuidado e Itinerrários Terapêuticos (IT) para o diagnóstico e tratamento das Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (IST), com destaque para sífilis, entre Travestis e Mulheres Trans (TrMT) em Salvador, Brasil. Foram realizados 05 grupos focais e 06 entrevistas semiestruturadas com 30 TrMT. Os achados apontam amplo desconhecimento e percepções contraditórias sobre as IST, especialmente a sífilis; identificação de duas importantes trajetórias de cuidado às IST e o destaque para IT marcados por estigmas e discriminação nos serviços de saúde. Sugere-se a ampliação das ações de saúde para essa população reconhecendo suas necessidades e a construção de novas estratégias de prevenção e tratamento para IST, dialogadas com as TrMT, e garantia de autonomia, ética e sigilo na produção do cuidado.

Abstract The article aimed to analyze knowledge, perceptions, care practices and Therapeutic Itineraries (TI) for the diagnosis and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD), with emphasis on syphilis, among travesti and transgender women (TGW) in Salvador, Brazil. 05 focus groups and 06 semi-structured interviews with travesti/TGW were carried out with a total of 30 participants. The findings point to a wide lack of knowledge and contradictory perceptions about STD, especially syphilis; identification of two important trajectories of care for STD and the emphasis on TI marked by stigma and discrimination in health services. The expansion of health actions for this population is suggested, recognizing their needs and the construction of new prevention and treatment strategies for STD, in dialogue with the travesti/TGW, and guaranteeing autonomy, ethics and confidentiality in the production of care.

Resumen El artículo tuvo como objetivo analizar conocimientos, percepciones, prácticas de atención y Rutas Terapêuticas (RT) para el diagnóstico y tratamiento de las Enfermedades de Transmisión Sexual (ETS), con énfasis en la sífilis, entre las travestidas y mujeres trans (TrMT) en Salvador, Brasil. Se realizaron 05 grupos focales y 06 entrevistas semiestructuradas con 30 TrMT. Los hallazgos apuntan a una amplia falta de conocimiento y percepciones contradictorias sobre las ETS, especialmente la sífilis; identificación de dos importantes trayectorias de atención a las ETS y el énfasis en las RT marcadas por el estigma y la discriminación en los servicios de salud. Se sugiere ampliar las acciones de salud para esta población, reconociendo sus necesidades y la construcción de nuevas estrategias de prevención y tratamiento de las ETS, en diálogo con el TrMT, y garantizando la autonomía, ética y confidencialidad en la producción de cuidados.

Prevalencia de la infección por Chlamydia trachomatis y su potencial impacto perinatal en pacientes chilenas / Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection and a potential perinatal impact in Chilean patients

Resumen Chlamydia trachomatis es la infección de transmisión sexual bacteriana más frecuente en el mundo. Según datos de la Organización Mundial de la Salud, su prevalencia se estima alrededor de 4,2% en mujeres. Es una infección silente; sin embargo, puede desarrollar complicaciones en la fertilidad o durante el embarazo. El objetivo de esta revisión es describir la prevalencia de C. trachomatis en estudios recientes en Chile, que utilicen para su detección reacción de polimerasa en cadena (RPC), revisar las posibles complicaciones perinatales asociadas, conocer las recomendaciones de tamizaje en gestantes en otros países y discutir la necesidad de incluir en nuestro país un programa de tamizaje prenatal.

Abstract Chlamydia trachomatis is the most frequent bacterial sexually transmitted disease around the world. Estimated prevalence by WHO is 4,2% for women. Most cases are asymptomatic, but complications in fertility and during pregnancy are possible. The aim of this review is to describe the prevalence of C. trachomatis in Chilean studies using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection, to describe the possible perinatal complications, to know recommendations about pregnancy screening in other countries, and to discuss the possibility of implementing in Chile.

Epidemiological characteristics of sexually transmitted diseases from 2005 to 2017 in Mengla County， Yunnan Province / 上海预防医学

Objective:To determine the epidemiological characteristics and incidence trends of sexually transmitted diseases （STD） in Mengla County of Yunnan Province， and provide evidence for future prevention and control of STD. Methods:STD case information from 2005 to 2017 was extracted from the National Notifiable Infectious Disease Report Information System. Data were collected by year and disease type，and the incidence rate， epidemic characteristics and suspicious contact history of STD were statistically analyzed. Results:A total of 1 251 STD cases were reported in Mengla county from 2005 to 2017， including 490 gonorrhea， 483 syphilis， 216 condyloma acuminatum， 16 genital chlamydial infection and 46 genital herpes. The average annual incidence of STD was 35.57/100 000. The majority of STD cases were 20-29 years old （n=541，43.25%）， married （n=603，48.20%）， Han people （n=638，50.10%）， with education of middle school （n=536，42.85%）， and occupation of farmers （n=702， 56.12%）. The 42.61% of STD cases had non-marital sexual contact history， in which the proportion was significantly higher among male （55.05%） than female （28.98%）. In addition， the proportion of non-marital sex among STD cases increased gradually by year and significantly differed. Conclusion:The epidemic status of STD in Mengla county is relatively low. However， STD incidence increased gradually by year， which warrants more and specific measures on the STD control and prevention.

Knowledge， attitude and practice（KAP） of adolescents visiting STD clinic and influencing factors / 上海预防医学

Objective:To understand the status and knowedge， attitude， practice（KAP） of adolescent sexually transmitted disease（STD） patients in Shanghai， and provide evidence for the development of health interventions. Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted by anonymous interview survey using self-made questionnaires in patients during 2017.10.1-2017.12.31. Consecutive variables were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test. Classification variables were analysed using Chi-square analysis and logistic analysis. Results:Regarding to sex and reproductive health， the knowledge awareness rate of STD patients was very low. The rate of correctly answering most questions was less than 5%. The patients were more open to risky sex， while the proportion of positive attitude towards safe sex was lower. Men were more open than women to risky sex. For example， 34.7% and 35.7% of men accepted homosexuality and one-night stand， respectively， but only 1.5% and 12.4% of women showed acceptance. There was statistically significant difference in knowledge scores of STD between different genders （P=0.020）. The knowledge score of female patients was higher than that of male patients. There were statistically significant differences in unsafe sex and preventive health care attitudes among patients of different gender （P<0.001） and sex orientation （P<0.001）. The attitudes of female patients were better than those of male patients， and the attitudes of heterosexual patients were better than those of sexual minorities. There was statistically significant difference in sexual behavior among patients with different sexual orientation （P=0.014）， and the behavior score of sexual minority patients was better than that of heterosexual patients. The influencing factors of sex and reproductive knowledge were gender （P=0.001） and native place （P=0.004）. STD knowledge level in females and Shanghai residents was higher than males and the non-residents. Conclusion:There is a large gender difference in adolescent STD groups in Shanghai. Women， floating population and sexual minorities are vulnerable groups and need more social support. More health education should be targeted on the factors affecting reproductive health knowledge， and adolescent STD prevention strategies should be formulated.

Nivel de conocimiento sobre métodos anticonceptivos y salud reproductiva en adolescentes mexicanos de medio rural / Level of knowledge about contraceptive methods and reproductive health in Mexican adolescents in rural area

INTRODUCCIÓN la información sobre anticoncepción es importante antes que se inicie la vida sexual. OBJETIVO determinar el nivel de conocimiento y uso de métodos anticonceptivos por adolescentes en medio rural. MÉTODOS estudio transversal analítico, se encuestó a adolescentes de 15-19 años de edad de ambos sexos, que asistían a un centro de salud rural, 70% sin vida sexual y 30% que ya habían iniciado su vida sexual. Se empleó una cuestionario auto-administrado que incluyó variables sociodemográficas, socioeducativas y de uso de métodos anticonceptivos. RESULTADOS el nivel de conocimientos fue medio en 38% y bajo en 31%. El condón fue el método anticonceptivo más utilizado (88%) y del que se tenía más conocimiento. Tiene un conocimiento bajo el 48,7%, el 30% y el 29,7% de adolescentes de 15, 16 y 17 años respectivamente. El conocimiento va aumentando con la edad; es "medio y alto" en 48,7% y 86,6% a los 15 y 19 años, respectivamente. Se observa que a mayor conocimiento, mayor uso de métodos anticonceptivos. CONCLUSIONES es necesaria mayor información sobre el uso adecuado de los métodos anticonceptivos en la escuela y en la familia a nivel rural antes del inicio de la vida sexual, para prevenir las enfermedades de transmisión sexual y los embarazos no deseados.

INTRODUCTION information on contraception is important before sexual life begins. OBJECTIVE to determine the level of knowledge and use of contraceptive methods by adolescents in rural areas. METHODS analytical cross-sectional study, surveyed adolescents aged 15-19 years of both sexes, who attended a rural health center, 70% without sexual life and 30% who had already started their sexual life. A self-administered questionnaire was used that included sociodemographic, socio-educational and use of contraceptive variables. RESULTS the level of knowledge was medium in 38% and low in 31%. The condom was the most widely used contraceptive method (88%) and the most widely known. 48,7%, 30%, and 29,7% of adolescents aged 15, 16, and 17, respectively, have low knowledge. Knowledge increases with age; it is "medium and high" in 48,7% and in 86,6% at 15 and 19 years, respectively. It is observed that the greater the knowledge, the more frequent use of contraceptive methods. CONCLUSIONS more information is needed on the proper use of contraceptive methods at school and in the family at the rural level before the start of sexual life, to prevent sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections and its Associated factors among women living with HIV/AIDS

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are significant public health problem in India. Studies have shown a considerably higher prevalence of STIs among females as well as in high-risk groups. Thus, we conducted this study to estimate the prevalence of STIs and to find out its associated factors among women living with HIV/AIDS. Material & Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the ART centre, Aligarh. A total of 170 HIV positive women were approached with study tools comprising of pre-structured proforma. NACO STIs Syndromes were used to estimate STIs. Data was analyzed using the SPSS version 20.0, keeping significance at p<0.05. Results: We found the self-reported prevalence of STIs in HIV positive women to be 18.2% (31/170) at the time of interview and 49.4% (84/170) ever since the diagnosis of HIV. Most of the HIV women were presently having vaginal/cervical or urethral discharge syndrome (93.5%) and genital ulcer syndrome (16.1%). STIs were significantly associated with uneducated females and with irregular use of condoms. Conclusion: This study found the prevalence of STIs to be still higher among HIV positive women, in spite of years of targeted interventions reducing it. A proper action and further researches are required to explore and manage variables associating STIs for reducing its prevalence

Fatores associados às infecções sexualmente transmissíveis: inquérito populacional no município de São Paulo, Brasil / Factors associated with sexually transmitted infections: a population based survey in the city of São Paulo, Brazil

Resumo Descrevemos a frequência de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST), os fatores associados e as orientações recebidas dos profissionais de saúde entre homens e mulheres no município de São Paulo. Estudo de corte transversal, com inquérito populacional, com indivíduos de 15 a 64 anos residentes em São Paulo. De 4057 indivíduos que iniciaram a vida sexual, 6,3% relataram IST durante a vida, 4,3% das mulheres e 8,2% dos homens. As IST mostraram associação, entre os homens, com: idade > 34 anos, não uso de preservativo na primeira relação sexual; e entre as mulheres idade > 25 anos. Mostraram-se fatores de proteção, entre os homens: não ter tido relações sexuais com pessoa do mesmo sexo; e entre as mulheres: início sexual > 15 anos de idade e não ter tido parceria casual no último ano. Quanto às orientações, 72,1% e 64,7% das mulheres as receberam sobre a importância de realizar testes para HIV e sífilis, respectivamente, enquanto foram ofertadas para menos da metade dos homens (40,2% e 38,6%). A elevada proporção de antecedentes de IST entre a população do município e os resultados deste estudo possibilitaram a construção, implementação e avaliação de políticas públicas de saúde para o enfrentamento das IST incluindo o HIV, com diminuição de barreiras de acesso aos preservativos e criação de um app para prevenção.

Abstract We determined the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), the factors associated with infection and types of counseling received by men and women from health professionals in the City of São Paulo. The investigation consisted of a cross-sectional study conducted with men and women aged between 15 and 64 years living in the City of São Paulo. Of 4,057 individuals who had engaged in sexual activity, 6.3% reported previous history of a STI: 4.3% of women and 8.2% of men. The factors associated with STI were being aged over 34 years and not using a condom during first sexual intercourse, among men, and being aged over 25 years among women. Protective factors included not having had sexual intercourse with someone from the same sex, among men, and having initiated sexual activity after the age of 15 years and not having a casual sex partner over the last 12 months, among women. Counseling about the importance of HIV and syphilis testing was received by 72.1% and 64.7% of women, respectively, while fewer than half of the men received this type of counseling (40.2% and 38.6 %, respectively). The prevalence of previous history of a STI was high among the population of the City of São Paulo. The findings of this study informed the development, implementation, and evaluation of STI policies, including those directed at HIV, leading to a reduction in the barriers that hinder access to and use of condoms and the creation of STI prevention app.

Conhecimento e percepção sobre o HPV na população com mais de 18 anos da cidade de Ipatinga, MG, Brasil / Knowledge and perception of HPV in the population over 18 years of age in the city of Ipatinga - State of Minas Gerais, Brazil

Resumo Vários estudos têm identificado conceitos errôneos sobre o Papiloma Vírus Humano (HPV), o que pode propiciar comportamentos negligentes e de risco para a saúde da população. O objetivo deste artigo é avaliar o conhecimento de homens e mulheres acerca do HPV na população do município de Ipatinga-MG, além de avaliar os fatores socioeconômicos e as atitudes preventivas associadas a esse conhecimento. Estudo transversal, com 591 indivíduos residentes na cidade de Ipatinga, por meio de amostragem estratificada por quotas, proporcional ao número de indivíduos por sexo e idade em cada uma das oito regionais administrativas da cidade. Para avaliar os fatores associados ao conhecimento sobre HPV foram utilizados os testes qui-quadrado ou t-Student e modelo de regressão logística binária. Menos da metade (40,1%) dos entrevistados afirmaram saber o que é HPV. Os fatores associados ao relato de conhecimento sobre HPV foram: ser do sexo feminino, ter nível de escolaridade médio ou superior, utilizar o serviço de saúde particular, ter ouvido ou visto alguma campanha sobre HPV e saber da existência da vacina contra o HPV. Existe grande déficit de conhecimento sobre o HPV e pouca qualificação do que se sabe, favorecendo ações com risco potencial à saúde, inclusive do parceiro.

Abstract Several studies have identified misconceptions about human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to negligent behavior and risk to the health of the population. This article aims to assess the knowledge of men and women about HPV in the city of Ipatinga, Minas Gerais, and evaluate socioeconomic factors and preventive measures associated with such knowledge. It involved a cross-sectional study with 591 subjects living in the city, by means of stratified sampling by quotas proportional to the number of individuals by sex and age in each of the eight administrative regions of the city. Pearson's chi-square test or the t-Student test and the binary logistic regression model were used to assess the factors associated with knowledge about HPV. Less than half (40.1%) of the respondents said they knew what HPV was. Factors associated with having knowledge about HPV were being female, having secondary or tertiary education, using the private health service, having heard about or seen a campaign about HPV and knowing of the existence of a vaccine against HPV. There is a great deficit of knowledge about HPV and vague information of what is known, favoring actions with a potential risk to personal health, including that of the partner.

Anemia: uma avaliação em pacientes portadores de HIV/AIDS / Anemia: an assessment in patients with HIV/AIDS / Anemia: an assessment in patients with HIV/AIDS

Introdução: Doenças hematológicas são comumente associadas ao descontrole da replicação do HIV e à consequente depleção dos linfócitos T-helper e, especial atenção merece a anemia, que é a alteração hematológica mais frequente. Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência de anemia e relação com os dados antropométricos de portadores de HIV/AIDS que fazem tratamento em uma Casa de Assistência a pessoas com AIDS do município de Aracaju-SE. Método: Estudo observacional descritivo transversal, composto por 120 indivíduos de ambos os sexos, na faixa etária de 26 a 61 anos, no qual foi avaliada a frequência de anemia e sua associação com algumas características sociodemográficas, clínicas e antropométricas. Resultados: Foi evidenciado predomínio do sexo masculino (54,8%), com média de idade próxima aos 40 anos. A frequência de anemia foi elevada, em 50,8% da amostra. Porém, dentre as variáveis analisadas, a anemia manifestou-se independentemente da faixa etária, do gênero, do tempo de descoberta da doença ou do tipo de fármaco utilizado no tratamento da infecção estudada. Já em relação aos dados antropométricos, a anemia prevaleceu nos pacientes que apresentaram maior índice de massa corporal, maior AMBc e associação entre menor somatório de dobras cutâneas e a ocorrência da anemia. Conclusão: A alta prevalência de anemia na amostra analisada é uma informação preocupante, visto que esse distúrbio tem sido associado à piora da condição clínica e está relacionada ao risco aumentado de óbitos em pacientes infectados pelo HIV/AIDS.

Promotion of sexual rights and health education: knowledge of sexually transmitted infections / Promoção de direitos sexuais e educação em saúde: conhecimento sobre infecções sexualmente transmissíveis

As Doenças Sexualmente Transmissíveis (DST) são mundialmente reconhecidas como um importante problema de saúde pública devido ao seu impacto na qualidade de vida das pessoas. Objetivo: Analisar o conhecimento da população sobre métodos de transmissão, tratamentos e possível cura de algumas DST e da AIDS, e compará-las entre si assim como quanto ao seu conhecimento sobre outras doenças. Métodos: Estudo exploratório e descritivo através do uso de um questionário em amostra de conveniência composta por 403 homens e mulheres de diferentes faixas etárias, 252 (62,5%) mulheres e 151 (37,5%) homens. Os resultados foram compilados e analisados pelo software IBM SPSS Statistics 22. Resultados: Foi observado um diferente nível de conhecimento sobre formas de transmissão e prevenção de DST/AIDS. Perguntas sobre AIDS tiveram o maior número de respostas corretas, acima de 80%. Quanto à transmissão de certas doenças, as publicadas pela mídia, como a AIDS e a dengue, são mais conhecidas e apresentam melhores níveis, acima de 90%. No entanto, houve alta falta de familiaridade dos participantes quanto às doenças pouco divulgadas por ações e campanhas governamentais de saúde, apesar de sua alta prevalência, como é o caso da gonorreia e da sífilis. Conclusão: Informação sobre DSTs e outras doenças altamente divulgadas pela mídia e por campanhas de saúde pública foram incorporadas pelos participantes dessa pesquisa, mostrando o poder e a importância de campanhas de educação da saúde.

The Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) are recognized throughout the world as an important public health problem due to their impact on people's life quality. Objective: To survey the population knowledge of transmission ways, treatment and possible cure of some STDs and AIDS, and compare them with each other as well as with the knowledge of other diseases. Methods: An exploratory and descriptive study by the use of a questionnaire in a convenience sample composed of 403 men and women of different age groups, 252 (62.5%) women and 151 (37.5%) men. The results were compiled and analyzed by the IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software. Results: A different knowledge degree regarding the ways of transmission and prevention of STD/ AIDS was observed. Questions about AIDS had the highest right answers' rates, above 80%. As for the transmission of certain diseases, the ones published by the media, as Aids and dengue fever, are better known and also shown high levels, above 90%. However, there was a high degree of unfamiliarity of the participants regarding those diseases not so well divulged by the health actions and government campaigns, despite their high prevalence, such as gonorrhea and syphilis. Conclusion: Information on STD and other widely disseminated diseases by the media and public health campaigns were incorporated by the participants of this research, showing the power and significance of health education campaigns.

Trichomonas vaginalis / awareness of trichomoniasis in women attended by the health service of Bagé, RS, Brazil

This study aimed to measure the level of awareness of Trichomonas vaginalis / trichomoniasis and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), in 300 women from 19 municipalities in the southwest region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, who sought the gynecology sector of the Basic Healthcare Centers in the Municipality of Bagé from January to June 2013. The data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire, and the results were tabulated and organized using Excel® 2010 software. Only 5.7% of the participants said they were aware of T. vaginalis / trichomoniasis and had a little information on HIV and Aids in reference to other STDs. Schooling alone was significant (p = 0.0135), as women who had a high school diploma or higher education were 6.6 times more likely to be aware of T. vaginalis. There is, therefore, a need to devise better educational campaigns, addressing this and other STDs, such as trichomoniasis, given the lack of knowledge about this parasite, its high frequency and possible escalation.

Prevalence and factors associated with Chlamydia trachomatis infection among women with HIV in São Paulo

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and risk factors associated with Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection among women with HIV in São Paulo. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included women with HIV who were receiving care from sixteen public health services in São Paulo (October 2013 to March 2014). All participants answered a questionnaire regarding their sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics. A urine sample was tested for CT and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) using the polymerase chain reaction. The chi-square test and a logistic regression model were used to test the associations with CT or NG infections. RESULTS: We evaluated 853 women and ultimately included 836 (98%) women. The mean age was 40.5 ± 0.34 years, and the prevalences of CT and NG infections were 1.8% and 0.5%, respectively. CT infection was associated with CD4+ T-cell counts of <350 cells/mm3 [adjusted odds ratio (ORadj): 24.5], age of 18-25 years (ORadj: 23.2), the non-use of condoms during the last 6 months (ORadj: 10.2), a self-reported history of a sexually transmitted infection (ORadj: 9.4), and having two or more sexual partners during the last year (ORadj: 6.1). CONCLUSIONS: Although we observed a low prevalence of CT infection among women with HIV, younger age was associated with a high risk of infection. Therefore, it may be appropriate to include screening for CT as part of the routine care for this population.

Comportamiento Sexual en Universitarios con Historia de Embarazo: Papel de la Intención de Usar y Negociar el Condón con la pareja

El propósito del presente estudio fue comparar el patrón de comportamiento sexual, conocimientos sobre VIH/ITS/uso correcto del condón, estilos de negociación del preservativo e intenciones para usar condón en universitarios quienes han tenido y no un embarazo. Se evaluaron 197 universitarios a través de un cuestionario de auto reporte, 50% informó haber tenido un embarazo alguna vez. Los resultados muestran que el patrón de comportamiento sexual es de mayor riesgo para quienes informaron precedente de embarazo. La intención de usar condón en el próximo encuentro sexual ­ en varones- fue menor y el estilo de negociación del condón basado en la acomodación fue mayor ­en mujeres- quienes informaron haber estado embarazadas alguna vez. Finalmente, se muestran las correlaciones halladas entre las variables. Se discute la importancia del perfil de riesgo que presentan los universitarios con precedente de embarazo y la necesidad de diseñar programas de prevención diferenciados por sexo.

The purpose of the present study was to compare the sexual behavior pattern, knowledge of HIV/STD, proper condom use, condom use negotiation styles and condom use intentions in undergraduates who have or do not have a pregnancy history. We evaluated 197 undergraduates through a self-reporting questionnaire, 50% reported having been pregnant. The results show that the sexual behavior pattern is riskier for those who reported having a pregnancy history. The intention of using a condom on the next sexual encounter was lower on men and the negotiation style based on mutual adjustment was higher on women who reported having been pregnant. Finally, the correlations found between the variables are shown. The risk profile importance of undergraduates who have a pregnancy history and the need to design prevention programs differentiated by sex is discussed.