A preliminary assessment of sexual transmitted infections (STIs) in Sri Lanka: District-wise overview

Abstract

Background: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a major global public health issue leading to many physical, psychological and social consequences. Sri Lanka has a low prevalence of HIV and needs to target key population (KPs) at higher risk of infection. This study examines the district wise STI incidences and KPs in Sri Lanka to evaluate the trends and relationships of STIs and to provide recommendations for further investigations. Methods: Data were extracted from the National STD/AIDS Control Programme (NSACP) report for the year 2015 in Sri Lanka. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) was carried out to identify how STIs correlate with male/female sex workers within districts using PC-ORD4 software. Results: Colombo district was at high risk for all tested STIs. The relationship of STIs among districts was examined by CCA and three distinguishable clusters were identified. The first group included seven districts and four STIs. The second group included five districts associated with genital herpes. Third group comprised of two districts correlated with late syphilis and gonorrhoea. Most districts with high STI incidences correlated well with districts with densely clustered KPs. Districts where KPs are clustered should be prioritized for STI/HIV prevention programmes. Both STIs and KPs are mainly clustered around tourist destinations. Conclusion: It is useful to monitor the alcohol and drug addictions for the patients and conducting STI prevention programs in vulnerable areas.