Prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases in female athletes in São Paulo, Brazil
Araujo, M.ít.P.d.; Kleine, H.T.; Parmigiano, T.R.; Gomes, N.T.; Caparroz, G.P.; Silva, I.D.C.G.d.; Girão, M.J.ão.B.C.; Sartori, M.G.F.
Einstein 12(1): 31-35
2014
ISSN/ISBN: 2317-6385 PMID: 24728243 DOI: 10.1590/s1679-45082014ao2949Document Number: 625192
To determine the prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases in female athletes. An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted including 50 female athletes with mean age of 20 ± 3 years. Colposcopy, pap smear, and polymerase chain reaction for Chlamydia trachomatis, human papillomavirus and Neisseria gonorrhoeae were performed. Blood samples were collected to test for the human immunodeficiency virus, syphilis, hepatitis B and C. The athletes presenting clinical diseases or conditions identifiable by laboratory tests were treated and followed up in the unit. Forty-six percent of the participants were unaware of sexually transmitted diseases. The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases among athletes was 48% (24 cases). Human papillomavirus was the most frequent agent (44%). Considering the human papillomavirus genotypes, subtype 16 was the most prevalent (53%), followed by 11-6 (22%) and 18 (13%). Two athletes tested positive for C. trachomatis. There were no cases diagnosed of infection by N. gonorrhoeae, syphilis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus. However, only 26 athletes had been vaccinated for hepatitis B. The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases in female athletes was high. Primary prevention measures (hepatitis B and human papillomavirus vaccination) and secondary (serology, pap smears) must be offered to this specific group of women. The matter should be further approached in sports.