History Of Multiple Sexual Partners Research Articles

Association between early sexual initiation and sexually transmitted infections among Peruvian reproductive-age women.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a serious public health problem worldwide, especially among reproductive-age women. The early sexual onset of sexual intercourse (EOSI) has been suggested as a risk factor, although there is no data at the national level. To evaluate the association between EOSI and STIs in Peruvian women of childbearing age. Analytical cross-sectional study with secondary data analyzes of the Peruvian Demographic and Family Health Survey 2018. The outcome was the presence of STIs in the last 12 months and the exposure variable was EOSI (age < 15 years at the time of their first sexual experience). To evaluate the association of interest, crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) were calculated using generalized linear models with Poisson family and logarithmic link function. We analyzed data from 31,028 women of childbearing age. The 11.3% reported having STIs in the last 12 months and 20.2% of the participants had an EOSI. After adjusting for potential confounders, we found that EOSI was associated with STIs (aPR: 1.27; 95% CI: 1.08-1.50; p = 0.005). When conducting stratified analysis by area of residence and number of sexual partners, this association was maintained in women living in urban areas (aPR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.11-1.66; p = 0.003) those who did not report having a history of multiple sexual partners (aPR: 1.27; 95% CI: 1.08-1.51; p = 0.005), and those in the middle (aPR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.03-1.97; p = 0.034) and highest (aPR: 2.12; 95% CI: 1.33-3.39; p = 0.002) wealth quintiles. Among reproductive-age women from Peru, EOSI was associated with STIs, especially in women living in urban areas, with no history of multiple sexual partners, and belonging to the middle to higher wealth index. The implementation of measures to prevent EOSI and fostering appropriate sexual health counseling for women with EOSI is advised.

Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors for Hepatitis B Virus among Pregnant Women Attending a Public Health Facility in Osogbo, Nigeria

BackgroundHepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among pregnant women has a high rate of vertical transmission and consequential effects on fetal and neonatal outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care services in Osogbo, Nigeria.MethodologyThis hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women attending routine antenatal care clinic between April and June 2021. Systematic random sampling technique was used to recruit 240 pregnant women, their data were collected by face to face interview using a pretested questionnaire, while blood sample was collected aseptically to determine hepatitis B surface antigen by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay test kit. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to examine the association between explanatory variables and outcome variable.ResultsThe mean age and seroprevalence of the study population were 27.50 ± 4.4 years and 5.8% respectively. The significant risk factors for HBV infection were tattooing (aOR = 5.22; 95% CI = 0.52–8.01; p = 0.0000), history of multiple sexual partners (aOR = 2.88; 95% CI = 1.92–12.42; p = 0.0044); and past history of contact with HBV patient (aOR = 2.17; 95% CI = 1.21–15.32; p = 0.0310) were significant predictors of HBV infection.ConclusionThe seroprevalence of HBV from this study was of intermediate endemicity. We therefore, advocate for continuous health education programs on the mode of HBV transmission, high-risk behaviors and methods of preventions at antenatal care clinics to raise the awareness of mothers and limit the spread of infection.Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2023;6(2):199-207

Triple sexually transmitted infections among pregnant woman in the context of Elimination of mother to child transmission in Southern Ethiopia: Reports from a survey of questionnaires and laboratory studies.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause a wide range of public health problems if left untreated. They can lead to adverse birth outcomes, including stillbirth, fetal loss, neonatal death, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Although great efforts have been made to reduce STIs nationally, their incidence remains high in Ethiopia, and their co-infection calls for urgent action. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the determinants of three STIs among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) in the context of the elimination of mother-to-child transmission in public health facilities in Sawla Town, Gofa zone, Southern Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study design was conducted among pregnant women attending antenatal care in public health facilities in Sawla Town, Southern Ethiopia, from May to July 2022. Data were collected from pregnant women's serum using an HIV rapid test, an HBsAg rapid test device, and a VDRL for HIV, HBV, and syphilis, respectively. Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages, were used to describe each relevant variable. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify the determinants of STIs. A total of 484 pregnant women attending antenatal care were screened. The mean age of the women was 24.0 ± 4.6 years, and nearly half of the participants had completed secondary school or higher. The overall seroprevalence of three STIs (HIV, HBV, and syphilis) among pregnant women was 6.8%. These three sexually transmitted infections were shown to be more common among pregnant women who were not able to read and write, had tattoos, had previously had an abortion, and had a history of multiple sexual partners. The seroprevalence found in this study was intermediate in comparison with the WHO standard. Efforts should be made to strengthen the existing health education and RH service integration on STI screening, and treatment that further eliminates vertical infection.

Cervical cancer screening utilization and associated factors among female health workers in public health facilities of Hossana town, southern Ethiopia: A mixed method approach.

Worldwide, a substantial proportion of women have low cervical cancer screening services utilization. There is a paucity of evidence in utilization of cervical cancer screening services among female health workers and inconsistent findings in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the utilization of cervical cancer screening services and associated factors among female health workers in public health facilities of Hossana town, Southern Ethiopia. Facility-based cross-sectional study design complemented with the qualitative inquiry was conducted among randomly selected 241 study participants in Hossana town from June 1 to July 1, 2021. Logistic regression models were used to determine the association between dependent and independent variables with the assumption of a variable with a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Qualitative data were transcribed verbatim then translated to English and analyzed using open code version 4.03. Out of the total study participants, 19.6% was screened for cervical cancer. Having a diploma level of education (AOR = 0.48;95%CI:0.24,0.98), having three or more children (AOR = 3.65;95%CI:1.44,9.21), having multiple sexual partners(AOR = 3.89;95%CI: 1.38,11.01), and knowledge of cervical cancer screening (AOR = 2.66;95% CI:1.19,5.95) were statistically significantly associated with cervical cancer screening utilization. In-depth interviews suggested additional barriers for low screening utilization including lack of health educational materials, limitation of service to a specific area, service interruption, provider incompetency, and miss-trust and lack of attention by a trained provider. Utilization of cervical cancer screening service among female health workers is low. Having a diploma level of education, having three or more children, a history of multiple sexual partners, and knowledge about cervical cancer were predictors of cervical cancer screening utilization. Contextualized health talks and promotion through training with a special focus on low level of knowledge, had lower educational level, and the availability of cervical cancer screening services are critical.

(039) Vaginal Orgasms: Really exists?

Abstract Introduction In 1948 Alfred Kinsey’s investigation of female and male sexuality found that 80% of women reached orgasm mainly through non-coital sexual experiences, such as oral and physical manipulation of the genitals or through sex toys. After that many peer-reviewed studies confirmed these data as well as in our practice. However, the question remains; what happened with the other 20% that reached orgasm through vaginal penetration. Objective To describe the epidemiological sexual characteristics of the 20% of women who reached orgasm mainly through vaginal penetration. Methods Over 3000 sexual histories were done in our medical center and were used to collect data regarding the reasons for the orgasm obtained through vaginal penetration. This study includes retrospective and prospective questionnaires applied to all patients seen in our centers. Results The epidemiological sexual characteristic of this specific group of women are: - 75% have had only one sexual partner in their lives - 20% of them have had two sexual partners in their life and - 5% of them have more than two. It has been very scantly found that women with a history of multiple sexual partners enjoy sexual penetration. The orgasmic response resulting from coital sex was more persistent and presently found while the number of sexual partners was less. Increased orgasmic responsiveness was also present when the initiation of the sexual activity with the partner was earlier in life. Conclusions When the sexual development of a woman is allowed to mature in the presence of a lifelong partner. Their response to penetrative vaginal stimuli is better and the obtention of sexual pleasure and orgasm reinforce this response that persists throughout life and is more attainable over any other form of vaginal stimulation. Disclosure No

A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY TO FIND OUT THE PROPORTION OF HEPATITIS B VIRUS INFECTION AND ITS ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINIC IN TERTIARY HEALTH CARE CENTER IN CENTRAL INDIA

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection continues to be a life- threatening health problem throughout world, infecting more than two billion people. While blood transfusion and unsafe therapeutic injection continue to be major risk factors, the role of vertical transmission remains under- estimated. Hence, this study was done to nd out the prevalence of HBV infection and associated risk factors among healthy pregnant women in Central India Indore (M.P.). The present study was a prospective, cross-sectional study conducted, in the department of Microbiology of M.G.M. Medical College from June 2021 to June 2022. Methodology: After receiving 5 ml of blood sample in the Microbiology Laboratory, serum was separated by centrifugation. They were then tested for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) by Rapid Test and Enzyme linked Immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Total 610 samples were screened among which 12 (%) were tested positive for HBsAg. Pregnant women found with history of blood transfusion was found to be 5(41.66%), followed by tattooing which was 33.33%, followed by history of multiple sexual partners, HIV positive and family history of HBV infection which was 8.33%,8.33% and 8.33% respectively. Conclusion: Perinatal transmission is the major route of HBV transmission in the absence of prophylaxis, a large proportion of viremic mothers transmits infection to neonates. Immunization is the most effective and only way of preventing development of chronic carrier state. Hence all neonates were administered with hepatitis B vaccine and 0.5 ml of hepatitis B immunoglobulin within 12 hours of birth

Cervical cancer screening utilization and associated factors among women attending antenatal care at Asella Referral and Teaching Hospital, Arsi zone, South Central Ethiopia

BackgroundCervical cancer is a major public health problem affecting women worldwide. It is the second cause of mortality among women in Ethiopia. Early Cervical cancer screening has a tremendous impact on reducing morbidity and mortality related to cervical cancer infection. Therefore, this study aimed to assess cervical cancer screening utilization and associated factors among women attending Antenatal Care at Asella referral and teaching hospital, Arsi Zone, south-central Ethiopia.MethodThis study employed a facility-based cross-sectional study among 457 Antenatal Care mothers from December 2020 to February 2021. Data collection was performed using interviewer-administered structured questionnaires. Data were entered into EpiInfo Version 7 and transferred to SPSS V.21 for analysis. A logistic regression model was used to determine the factors associated with cervical cancer screening utilization and an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval at p-value < 0.05 was computed to determine the level of statistical significance.ResultThe magnitude of cervical cancer screening utilization was found to be 7.2%(95% CI: 5.2, 10.6). Educational status of secondary and above (AOR = 2.92; 95%CI = 1.078–7.94), getting screened for any reproductive healthcare services(AOR = 4.95; 95%CI = 2.24–10.94), having multiple sexual partners(AOR = 4.55; 95%CI = 1.83–11.35), and satisfactory knowledge of cervical cancer screening(AOR = 3.89; 95%CI = 1.74–8.56) were significantly associated factors with cervical cancer screening utilization.ConclusionUtilization of cervical cancer screening was low among women attending Antenatal care at Asella Referral and Teaching hospital, Southcentral Ethiopia. Educational status, history of multiple sexual partners, getting screened for any reproductive healthcare services, and knowledge of cervical cancer screening were significant factors associated with the utilization of cervical cancer screening. Hence, to improve the utilization of Cervical cancer screening, there should be the implementation of programmed health education and awareness creation on the benefits of screening as well as the promotion of reproductive healthcare services at health facilities.

Sociodemographic and gynaecological factors that influence uptake of cervical cancer screening. A cross-sectional study in Calabar, Nigeria.

Voluntary screening for cervical cancer has not been very effective in sub-Saharan Africa. Awareness and presence of risk factors may drive the need to screen. To characterise sociodemographic and gynaecological factors as promoters of screening uptake. The setting was a women health rally in Calabar, Nigeria with women from different towns/ villages in Cross River State. An interviewer-administered questionnaire assessed sociodemographic and gynaecological risk factors for cervical cancer, previous Pap smear, and acceptance to screen. Data inputted in EpiInfo 7, and GraphPad Prism 7.04 statistical software's, were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. One hundred and eighty (180) women gave consent for inclusion in the study. The age ranged from 21 to 65 with a mean of 39.8±10.3 years. With 52.22% of respondents accepting and 47.78% declining to screen, test of association showed that knowledge of cervical cancer, history of multiple sexual partners, and presence of offensive watery vaginal discharge significantly reduced the number of women who refused to screen. Previously screened women were not more likely to accept screening. Screening for cervical cancer was still poor. Cervical cancer knowledge and recognition of risk factors improve screening uptake.

Utilisation of cervical cancer screening and factors associated with screening utilisation among women aged 30–49 years in Mertule Mariam Town, East Gojjam Zone, Ethiopia, in 2021: a cross-sectional survey

ObjectiveTo assess the practice of cervical cancer screening and its associated factors among women aged 30–49 years.DesignCommunity-based cross-sectional survey.SettingMertule Mariam Town, Northwest Ethiopia, 1 May–20 June 2021.ParticipantsWomen aged 30–49 years...

P311 First reported case of Cladosporium liver abscess in immunocompromised host

Poster session 2, September 22, 2022, 12:30 PM - 1:30 PMBackground: Cladosporium species are ubiquitous, saprobic, dematiaceous fungi that are infrequently associated with human opportunistic infections. They are usually associated with allergic rhinitis, asthma, localized superficial, and deep cutaneous and subcutaneous lesions, but rarely cause disseminated infection, known as phaeohyphomycoses.Case Description: We report a case of Cladosporium liver abscess in an immunocompromised host. A 39-year-old male with a history of multiple sexual partners was newly diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus and was antiretroviral therapy naïve. He presented with epigastric and right hypochondriac pain, associated with abdominal distension for 3 months. On examination, he was jaundiced with hepatomegaly. Full blood count showed leukocytosis with neutrophilia (TWC 14.3 × 109/l with ANC 11.2 × 109/l). The liver function test shows hyperbilirubinemia with obstructive features. (Total bilirubin 101.9 μmol/l, direct bilirubin 78.8 μmol/l, ALT 87 U/l, AST 168 U/l, ALP 383 U/l, INR: 1.37). Baseline CD4 was 41 cells/ul, and HIV viral load was >10 000 000 copies/mL.CECT 4-phase liver shows enlarged liver with smooth lobulated margin, measured 22.5 cm. Multiple large round hypodense masses of varying sizes were seen scattered in both liver lobes. The largest mass is in segment VII measuring 5.8 × 7.7 × 8.8 cm. Liver biopsy showed evidence of diffuse large B cell lymphoma while tissue fungal culture grew Cladosporium sp. Antifungal susceptibility testing showed a low MIC range for posaconazole, voriconazole, and itraconazole while terbinafine was not tested. Patient received tablet voriconazole 200 mg BD for 3 months. He was also initiated on chemotherapy antiretroviral therapy at the same time with the regime of T. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine 1 tablet once daily and tablet dolutegravir 50 mg once daily. A repeated PET-CT done 3 months later during chemotherapy shows residual hypodense liver lesions.Discussion: A wide range of fungi can be found on various human mucosal surfaces, such as lungs, vaginal tract, urinary tract, oral cavity, intestines, and skin. The community of commensal fungi interacts with commensal bacteria and the host. Changes in the commensal fungi have a significant impact on host health and are associated with pathological conditions. Cladosporium was reported as one of the commensal fungi. Reports of invasive Cladosporium infection are extremely rare with variable presentation. There were previous case reports of Cladosporium infection of the central nervous system, lung, and skin but no liver abscess has been reported yet. Fungal hepatic abscesses are not uncommon among immunocompromised hematological malignancy patients, especially those with leukemia and prolonged neutropenia. Azoles, particularly itraconazole, and posaconazole have good activity against Cladosporium species, although voriconazole displayed variable activity. This is consistent with our case whereby itraconazole and posaconazole demonstrate the lowest MIC as compared to voriconazole. However, voriconazole was chosen instead of itraconazole for coverage against the possibility of Aspergillus appearing later. In our case, the patient showed a good response to voriconazole.ConclusionThe choice of antifungal will depend on susceptibility testing, organ involvement, tissue bioavailability, drug-drug interaction, and patients’ clinical risk factors; whereas the duration of treatment is guided by radiological resolution and control of risk factors.

Magnitudes and Correlates of Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Hepatitis B Virus, and Syphilis among Pregnant Mothers Attending Antenatal Care in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Background Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and syphilis are major sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among the general population in Ethiopia, which in turn result in a wide range of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Hence, it is important to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors of HIV, HBV, and syphilis infection among pregnant mothers attending antenatal care in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted among 286 pregnant women from February 1, 2021, to March 30, 2021, in four selected public hospitals in Addis Ababa. Sociodemographic, risky sociocultural, behavioral, and hospital-related factors were collected using an interview-administered questionnaire. Detection of anti-HIV antibodies, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and rapid plasma reagin (RPR) for syphilis was conducted. A binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors of STIs using SPSS version 25. Result A total of 281 pregnant mothers with a mean age of 27.5 (SD 4.6) completed the study. Among the participants, the seroprevalence rates of HIV, HBV, and syphilis were 15 (5.3%), 9 (3.2%), and 5 (1.8%), respectively. Twenty six (9.3%) of the participants tested positive for any one of the STIs, and 3 (1.1%) of the women had HIV and syphilis coinfections. History of multiple sexual partners (AOR 3.42, 95% CI: 1.6-11.63) and STIs (AOR 3.7; 95% CI: 1.70-13.45) were significantly associated with HIV infection. Likewise, history of abortion (AOR 7.65, 95% CI: 1.17-49.74), tattooing (AOR 9.72, 95% CI: 1.41-66.73), and rape (AOR 9.72, 95% CI: 1.41-66.73) were significantly associated with hepatitis B virus infection. Husband history of multiple sexual partners (AOR 20.9, 95% CI: 1.8-241.8) was significantly associated with syphilis infection. The educational level of participants, history of tattooing (AOR 6.24, 95% CI: 1.79-21.7), and history of multiple sexual partners (AOR 5.15, 95% CI: 1.68-15.7) were independent predictors of infection with any one of the STIs. Conclusion There is still a high burden of HIV, HBV, and syphilis among pregnant mothers in Ethiopia. History of multiple sexual partners, abortion, rape, and tattooing was a significant predictor of STIs.

Sero-Prevalence of HBV and its Associated Factors Among Healthcare Providers in Public Health Facilities in Eastern Ethiopia.

Background:Healthcare providers are in high occupational risk of Hepatitis B virus infection than that of the general population because of the high risk of occupational exposure to patients’ body fluids and accidental sharp injuries. There are no large facility-based studies conducted on the prevalence of HBV infection and its associated factors among health care providers in eastern Ethiopia.Objective:This study aimed at investigating the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus and its associated factors among the healthcare providers in public health facilities in eastern Ethiopia.Methods:A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 438 randomly selected healthcare providers in eastern Ethiopia from March to June 2018. Pretested structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics and other risk factors. In addition, a 2.5 ml blood was collected and the serum was analyzed for Hepatitis B surface antigen using the Instant Hepatitis B surface antigen kit. Data were entered using Epidata version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS statistical packages version 22. Descriptive summary measures were used. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was conducted at 95% CI. An association at P-value <.05 was considered statistically significant.Results:A total of 438 (92.02% response rate) health care providers have participated in this study. The prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection was 9.6%. There were no significant differences in the HBV infection rates among healthcare providers with respect to socio-demographic characteristics (P-value >.05). After adjusting for some variables, the following variables remained statistically significantly associated with HBsAg positive result in the multivariable analysis: exposure to body fluids (AOR = 3.0; 95% CI [1.25, 7.05]), history of needle stick injury (AOR = 4.70; 95% CI [2.10, 10.55]), history of operation/surgery (AOR = 4.88, 95% CI [1.43, 16.62]), history of multiple sexual partner (AOR = 7.48; 95% CI [2.08, 26.96]), and being unvaccinated (AOR = 6.09; 95% CI [2.75, 13.51]).Conclusion:This study showed a high prevalence of HBV infection among health care providers in eastern Ethiopia. This is significant because health professionals may be at increased risk of chronic complications and may also be source of infection for their clients and general population during their healthcare practice. Management commitment that should focus on occupational safety and health promotions is necessary.

Precancerous Lesions of the Cervix and Associated Factors among Women of East Gojjam, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020.

BackgroundCervical cancer is the commonest cancer of women’s reproductive system, and is caused by a progression of precancerous lesions of the cervix. Studies on the prevalence and associated factors of precancerous lesions of the cervix are very limited in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area.ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess precancerous lesions of the cervix and associated factors among women of East Gojjam, northwest Ethiopia in 2020.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 340 cervical cancer–screened women in three hospitals of East Gojjam from February to April 2020. Data were collected by six BSc-qualified nurses who were working in the selected hospitals. EpiData Manager and SPSS 26 were used for data management and analysis. After the data had been clean, descriptive analysis was done and multivariate logistic regression used to identify predictors of precancerous lesions of the cervix. Statistical significance was taken to be P<0.05.ResultsOf the 340 recruited women, 15.3% (95% CI 11.83%–19.54%) had precancerous cervical lesions. Mean age was 37.11±9.3 years. Age 46–55 (AOR 3.8, 95% CI 1.21–12.47) years, age 56–65 (AOR 12.26, 95% CI 3.18–47.18) years, residing rurally (AOR 2.04, 95% CI 1.12–3.7), prolonged use of oral contraceptive pills (AOR 9.11, 95% CI 1.14–72.8), history of sexual transmitted infection (STI; AOR 3.40, 95% CI 1.32–8.78), HIV-positive status (AOR 4.89, 95% CI 1.54–15.49), and number of lifetime sexual partners (AOR 9.87, 95% CI 1.38–70.4) were important factors associated with precancerous lesions of the cervix.ConclusionWe found relatively high prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions. Age, rural residence, prolonged use of oral contraceptives, STI, multiple sexual partners, and being HIV-positive were important factors associated with precancerous cervical lesions. Women aged >46 years, with a history of STI, being HIV infected, and with a history of multiple sexual partners should be encouraged to get screened for cervical cancer.

Sero-prevalence of syphilis and associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundSyphilis remained a major cause of reproductive morbidity and poor pregnancy outcomes in developing countries. Previously, studies showed inconsistent results and failed to show the actual picture of the diseases in Ethiopia. Thus, the aim of this meta-analysis was, first, to determine the updated pooled prevalence of syphilis among pregnant women in Ethiopia and, second, to assess its associated factors.MethodsA comprehensive search was made on PubMed, Google scholar, Science Direct, and African Journals Online databases to identify relevant articles. A random effects model was used to estimate pooled syphilis prevalence and odds ratio (OR) with the respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using STATA 14 statistical software. I2 statistics and Egger’s regression test in conjunction with funnel plot was used to determine heterogeneity and publication bias among included studies respectively.ResultWe identified 13 suitable studies in this analysis. Accordingly, the pooled prevalence of syphilis among pregnant women in Ethiopia was 2.32% (95% CI, 1.68–2.97). Specifically, syphilis prevalence was 2.53% (95% CI, 1.92–3.14%) and 1.90% (95% CI, 0.40–3.40%) as per the treponemal and non-ytreponemal diagnostic test, respectively. On the other hand, regional analysis indicated that 4.06% (95% CI, 2.86–5.26) in Southern Nations Nationalities and Peoples (SNNP), 2.16% (95% CI, 1.57–2.75) in Amhara and 1.46% (95% CI, 0.69–2.23) in Oromia region. Being married (OR, 0.37 (95% CI, 0.12–0.91%)) was less likely to develop syphilis. On the other hand, women with history of multiple sexual partner (OR, 2.98 (95% CI, 1.15–7.70)) and women with history of previous sexually transmitted infection (STI) (OR, 4.88 (95% CI, 1.35–17.62)) have higher risk to develop syphilis. Besides, the pooled syphilis-HIV coinfection was 0.80% (95% CI, 0.60–1.01%).ConclusionThis study provides evidence of relatively high prevalence of syphilis among pregnant women in Ethiopia. Therefore, it is recommended to further ramping up of current intervention measures to prevent future generations.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO CRD42020211650

Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections among cervical cancer suspected women at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North-west Ethiopia

BackgroundSexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), and Syphilis have continued a significant public health problem, especially in areas with substandard infection prevention and control programs. It is known that STIs are largely associated with the increased occurrence of cervical cancer. To date, little is known about the burden of STIs among cervical cancer suspected women in Ethiopia.ObjectivesTo assess the seroprevalence of STIs and associated risk factors among cervical cancer suspected women with special emphasis on HIV, HBV, HCV, and Syphilis.MethodsA hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among cervical cancer suspected women at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from February to April 2017. A pre-tested and structured questionnaire was used to collect data on patients’ characteristics. The patient’s serum or plasma samples were tested for HIV, HBV, HCV, and syphilis using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In all aspects, the standard operational procedure was strictly followed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 software and presented using tables. Statistical associations were measured using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression. A p-value of below 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultA total of 403 cervical cancer suspected women with the mean age of 42.54 (SD + 11. 24) years were enrolled in the study. The overall prevalence of STIs was 16.6% (67/403) and the prevalence of HIV, HBV, HCV, and syphilis was 36/403 (8.9%), 10/403 (2.5%), 4/403 (1%), and 29/403 (7.2%) respectively. History of multiple sexual partners (Adjusted OR = 3.02, 95%CI 1.57–5.79, P = 0.001), alcohol addiction (Adjusted OR = 2.2, 95%CI 1.07–4.5, P = 0.031), history of STI (Adjusted OR = 3.38; 95% CI: 1.76–6.47, P = 0.00) and not use of condom (Adjusted OR = 4.99; 95% CI: 1.5–16.16, P = 0.007) were significantly associated with STIs.ConclusionThe prevalence of STIs was generally higher among cervical cancer suspected patients. Health education is encouraged to promote awareness about the prevention of STIs.

HIV Risk-Related Behaviors and Willingness to Use Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Among Black Americans with an Arrest History.

Black individuals in the USA are arrested and incarcerated at a significantly higher rate than White individuals, and incarceration is associated with increased HIV vulnerability. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) reduces the risk for HIV transmission, but little is known about the relationship between HIV risk behavior and willingness to use PrEP among Black individuals with an arrest history. A total of 868 individuals completed a nationally representative survey and provided baseline data on sexual risk. Participants were grouped as those with a history of arrest (N = 226) and those with no history of arrest (N=619) based on self-reported arrest history. Our study examined HIV risk behaviors associated with willingness to use PrEP between those with arrest history and those without arrest history. Participants with an arrest history were more likely to have a lifetime history of anal sex (p<0.0001) and sexually transmitted diseases (p=0.0007). A history of multiple sexual partners in the past 3 months was associated with PrEP willingness in individuals with an arrest history [aPR 2.61 (1.77, 3.85), p<0.0001], adjusting for other covariates in the model. Differences in risk behavior and willingness to use PrEP exist by arrest history. Understanding these risk behaviors are necessary to increase access to PrEP. PrEP uptake and adherence interventions, when recommended and made available for individuals at substantive risk of HIV infection at the time of arrest and during incarceration, are essential to reducing the spread of HIV in correctional facilities and in communities to which they return.

Prevalence and associated factors of weapon carrying among university students from 25 countries

The study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of recent weapon carrying among university students from 25 countries. Using a cross-sectional study design, 18 433 university students (median age = 20 years) 25 countries in Africa, the Americas, and Asia, replied to self-reported measures of weapon carrying, risk behaviours, negative emotions, stimuli, and protective factors. The prevalence of weapon carrying (past month) was 6.4% overall, 3.9% among female and 9.8% among male students. The prevalence of weapon carrying was above 10% among students in three countries: Bangladesh, Tunisia and Russia. In contrast, the prevalence of weapons carrying was the lowest (< 2.5%) in China, Laos, and Singapore. In the adjusted logistic regression analysis, male sex, risk behaviour (binge drinking, current tobacco use, frequent drug use, in a physical fight, history of multiple sexual partners, and having sustained a serious injury), and negative emotions and stimuli (depression, sleeping problems, and physical intimate partner violence victimisation) were associated with past-month weapon carrying. One in ten male and one in 20 female university students across 25 countries had been carrying a weapon in the past months. The results identified a potentially high-risk group of university students (males, substance use, violence victimisation and behaviour, sexual risk behaviour, injury, and psychological distress) that could be targeted for strategies to reduce weapon carrying in this population.

Prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus Among Pregnant Women on Antenatal Care Follow-Up at Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital and Mizan Health Center, Southwest Ethiopia

BackgroundHepatitis B virus(HBV) infection is a global public health problem, even though its prevalence is disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries. Mother-to-child transmission is a major route of HBV transmission in endemic areas. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HBV and its determinants among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital and Mizan Health Center, Southwest Ethiopia.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted between January 13th 2020 and February 5th 2020 among 370 pregnant women. The sample size was proportionally allocated to each health institution according to the total pregnant women on antenatal care at the respective health institution and a consecutive sampling technique was used to select study participants. Serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was tested using a rapid diagnostic test. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22. Multiple logistic regression analysis was done to identify the independent predictors of HBsAg serostatus at p-value <0.05.ResultsThree hundred seventy of the total 375 pregnant women participated in the study resulting in a response rate of 98.7%. Twenty-two (5.9%) of the pregnant women screened were found positive for HBsAg (prevalence=5.9%; 95% CI: 3.9–8.80%). History of contact with jaundice patients (AOR=9.87; 95% CI: 2.98–32.65), sharing sharp materials (AOR=3.96; 95% CI: 1.23–11.08) and history of multiple sexual partners (AOR=6.77; 95% CI: 2.44–18.78) were significantly associated with Hepatitis B Virus infection.ConclusionThe endemicity of hepatitis B virus seroprevalence is intermediate in the study settings. Factors associated with hepatitis B virus serostatus were behavioral; hence, modification of these factors may help to prevent the infection.

Prevalence of Abnormal Cervical Lesions and Associated Factors Among Women in Harar, Eastern Ethiopia.

PurposeThe primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of abnormal cervical lesions and associated factors and the secondary objective was to assess adherence to post-cryotherapy treatment recommendations, among women in Harari region, eastern Ethiopia.Materials and MethodsThis study was conducted in two public hospitals in Harar city from January 1 to May 30, 2019. A facility-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted and a total of 1181 women were included in the study. Structured face-to-face interviews with women aged 25–49 years were used to collect information on precancerous cervical lesion screening and adherence to post-cryotherapy treatment. Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) method was used to screen women for precancerous cervical lesions. The collected data were entered into Epi Info software and then exported to SPSS software for analysis. Logistic regression analysis was used to check the association between independent variables and abnormal cervical lesions.ResultsThe prevalence of abnormal cervical lesions among the participants screened was 24.5% (95% CI = 20.8–27.9%). Having no formal education (AOR = 2.68, 95% CI = 1.32–5.46), lack of awareness of cervical cancer, (AOR = 2.65, 95% CI = 1.68–4.23) and having a husband with history of multiple sexual partners (AOR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.13–2.7) were independently associated with abnormal cervical lesions. From the respondents who received cryotherapy treatment prior to the study, the majority, 92.9% (95% CI = 76.5–99.1), adhered to the post-cryotherapy treatment recommendations.ConclusionWe found that the prevalence of abnormal cervical lesions in this area was high. Having no formal education, lack of awareness of cervical cancer and having a husband with history of multiple sexual partners were independently associated with having abnormal cervical lesions. The federal ministry of health and other stakeholders should focus on the primary prevention method (HPV vaccination) at an earlier stage to reduce the prevalence of abnormal cervical lesions in the study area. Harari regional health bureau should provide awareness creation activities and special attention should be given to uneducated women.

Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus and syphilis among pregnant women attending Dessie referral hospital, Northeast Ethiopia

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background&lt;/strong&gt;: Globally the burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and syphilis infections are a common problem of pregnant women where the complications are transmitted to their new born infants. These infections, often silent and without symptoms, can result in serious and fatal health consequences.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods&lt;/strong&gt;: Cross-sectional study was conducted on 384 pregnant women attending Dessie referral hospital from February to April 2019 by using convenience sampling techniques. Data were collected by assigned nurses with face to face interview using a pre-tested questionnaire. Samples were screened by rapid serological tests for HIV and &lt;em&gt;T. pallidum &lt;/em&gt;antibodies as well as HBsAg. Data was analysed using SPSS. Logistic regression was used to see the association between dependent and independent variables. P values &amp;lt;0.05 was considered as statistically significant. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; The overall seroprevalence rates of HIV, HBsAg, syphilis and HIV/HBV coinfections were 6.5%, 4.7% and 0.8%, and 0.5% respectively. The history of sexual transmitted infections (STIs), multiple partners and using sharp materials were significantly associated to HIV with an adjusted odd ratio (AOR) of 8.35, 9.6 and 3.097 respectively. Likewise, the habit of ear/nose piercing and partner’s STIs exposure were associated with hepatitis B infection with an AOR 8.24 and 14.11 respectively.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; HIV and HBV infections are still critical public health concerns among pregnant women in the study area. History of multiple sexual partners, sharing of sharp materials, history of STIs exposure, habits of ear/nose piercing were significantly associated with infections.&lt;/p&gt;