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High Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Young Women Seeking HIV Testing in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

2004; Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; Volume: 31; Issue: 1 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1097/01.olq.0000105004.85419.17

1537-4521

Robert L. Cook, Silvia Beatriz May, Lee H. Harrison, Ronaldo I. Moreira, Roberta B. Ness, Sónia Batista, Marilena Da Silva Bastos, Mauro Schechter,

Reproductive tract infections research

In Brief Background and Objectives Few data are available on the prevalence of and risk factors for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) other than HIV in Brazil. Goal The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of HIV infection and other STDs in Brazilian women who seek HIV testing, investigate risk factors for these infections, and assess feasibility of screening in HIV test clinic settings. Study Design We conducted a cross-sectional study of 200 women, aged 14 to 29 years, who attended an HIV testing site in central Rio de Janeiro. Participants completed a questionnaire and received testing for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Results HIV and other STDs were common (HIV 8%, syphilis 6.5%, chlamydial infection 8%, and gonorrhea 9.5%). HIV was significantly associated with lower education and with having an HIV-infected partner. Other STDs were significantly associated with younger age at first intercourse, heavy alcohol consumption, and marijuana use. Conclusion STDs appear to be substantial health problems among young Brazilian women seeking HIV testing. HIV testing sites in Brazil should consider offering screening and treatment for STDs and substance abuse as part of their HIV prevention services. Young women seeking HIV testing in central Rio de Janeiro had a high prevalence of HIV and other STDs. Risk factors for STDs included less education and substance abuse.