Risk behaviors for Sexually Transmitted Infections in patients seen by a Testing and Counseling Center in the interior of the Amazon Region

Abstract

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health problem in Brazil and worldwide. Their occurrence impacts on quality of life and makes the body more susceptible to other diseases. The aim of this study was to identify risk behaviors for sexually transmitted infections in patients treated at a testing and counseling center. This is a descriptive study of a quantitative nature, carried out with data from patients in the western region of Pará seen at a testing and counseling center located in Santarém-Pará. Data was collected in the first half of 2023 using the Information System for Testing and Counseling Centers (SI-CTA) form. A total of 51 STI cases were diagnosed during 2022, for which the SI-CTA form was available, and cases of syphilis, hepatitis C and HIV were identified. Syphilis infection was diagnosed in 98% of patients. The single population had a percentage of 43.2% and the brown race/color 82.4%. The reason for seeking health services was prevention in 76.5% of cases. The most reported exposure was sexual, with 80.4%. Risk behaviors included: multiple sexual partners, alcohol consumption and not using condoms. The reasons given for not using a condom with a steady or occasional partner were: trust in the partner, not liking to use it, partner not accepting it and not having enough at the moment. The importance of actions that promote reflection on better health practices emphasizing the need to use preventive methods against STIs is highlighted.