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Sexually Transmitted Infections in Adolescents and Young Adults: A Cross Section of Public Health
Nunzia Cannovo1, Elena Bianchini2, Luciana Gironacci3
1Legal Medicine Unit, Local Health Authority (AST) 3, 62032 Camerino, Italy.
Introduction:
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be caused by a number of microorganisms that vary greatly in size, life cycle, clinical manifestations, and sensitivity to available treatments. Transmission of STIs can occur during unprotected (or condomless) sexual contact and through the exchange of body fluids during any type of activity. The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases remains high in the world, despite diagnostic and therapeutic improvements for these infectious diseases that rapidly eliminate the contagiousness of patients. Our study determines the prevalence of STI pathogens in adolescents and young adults in the population of the Province of Macerata (Italy). We will analyze data in correspondence to age and gender, and we will compare our results to international studies.
Materials And Method:
We analyzed STI test results from the entire database of a Provincial Health Authority for the period 2021-2022. The samples came from the following age groups: 0-12, 13-18, 19-25, and 26-35 from 2021 to 2022. The results came from vaginal and cervical swabs (for females); urethral, rectal, and pharyngeal swabs (for males and females); and seminal fluid (for males) for the following infections: HPV, Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Ureaplasmas, Gardnerella, Trichomonas vaginalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Treponema pallidum. The results also came from blood tests for HIV, hepatitis C, hepatitis B, and Treponema pallidum (TPHA, VDRL). In addition, we examined results from urine tests for chlamydia, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, trichomonas, and Treponema pallidum.
Conclusions:
The literature for other countries reports the need for comprehensive, culturally and developmentally sensitive care to address sexuality-related issues in adolescents and young adults, a need that also applies to Italy. These data will be of great importance in adopting evidence-based STI control programs in Marche Region. This study could, indeed, represent a landmark for public health officials and professionals, with the aim of promoting adolescents' access to sexual health services to receive useful information, strengthening preventive measures in younger age groups, and designing sexual education programs.
Insights
This study determined the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in adolescents and young adults in Macerata, Italy. Findings will inform public health strategies and improve sexual health services for younger populations.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a global health concern despite advancements in diagnostics and treatment.
- Transmission occurs through various sexual activities and bodily fluid exchange.
- High prevalence necessitates ongoing surveillance and targeted interventions, especially in younger demographics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of specific STI pathogens among adolescents and young adults in the Province of Macerata, Italy.
- To analyze STI prevalence based on age and gender.
- To compare local findings with international STI prevalence data.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of STI test results from a Provincial Health Authority database (2021-2022).
- Inclusion of data from age groups 0-12, 13-18, 19-25, and 26-35.
- Testing for HPV, Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Ureaplasmas, Gardnerella, Trichomonas vaginalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Treponema pallidum, HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C via various sample types (swabs, blood, urine).
Main Results:
- Data on the prevalence of specific STIs in the studied adolescent and young adult population.
- Age and gender-specific distribution of STI pathogens identified.
- Comparison of Macerata's STI prevalence with international data (details to be presented in full study).
Conclusions:
- Highlights the need for comprehensive, culturally sensitive sexual health care for adolescents and young adults in Italy, aligning with international recommendations.
- Emphasizes the importance of these findings for developing evidence-based STI control programs in the Marche Region.
- Suggests the study can guide public health officials in enhancing preventive measures, promoting access to sexual health services, and designing effective sexual education programs.
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