Risk factors for sexually transmitted disease in Harare: a case-control study
Wellington, M.; Ndowa, F.; Mbengeranwa, L.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases 24(9): 528-532
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0148-5717 PMID: 9339971 DOI: 10.1097/00007435-199710000-00006Document Number: 269237
Objective: To obtain information on risk factors and health-seeking behavior of men with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) attending primary care clinics. Study Design: Unmatched case-control. Methods: Cases consisted of 256 consecutive men with genital ulcer disease (GUD) and 256 with other STDs. Control subjects (N = 256) were recruited from every third man with non-STD-related complaints. All subjects were at least 15 years of age. A structured questionnaire was administered. Results: Genital ulcer disease cases reported more frequent sexual intercourse with a commercial sex worker (odds ratio (OR) = 17.4; 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 7.8-40.0) and a recent new sexual contact (OR = 6.7; CI = 3.3-14.1). Similarly, STD cases reported more frequent sexual contact with a commercial sex worker (OR = 3.4; CI = 2.0-5.6) and a recent new sexual contact (OR = 7.9; CI = 3.9-16.3). Reported condom use was less than 30% with all partner types. Of all STD cases, 80% sought treatment at the primary care clinics, with 35% delaying more than 7 days before seeking treatment. Conclusions: Culturally appropriate behavioral educational programs are advocated to reduce the risk of transmission and the period for seeking treatment for all STDs.