Rapid sexually transmitted disease assessment in two developing countries

Two rapid assessment studies of the magnitude of sexually transmitted disease (STD) were performed in Senegal and Uganda in 1989 and 1990. The study objectives were: to develop and validate STD indicators for the "rapid" assessment of the frequency of STD in populations; and to develop a standardized survey methodology to assess STD prevalence using these indicators. The World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), and Senegal and Ugandan government officials desired a product similar to the WHO/UNICEF immunization coverage survey instrument, which is an accepted and proven methodology, implemented by national programs and donors worldwide. Three indicators were used: 1) past or present signs of selected STD; 2) symptoms as noted by a clinician; and 3) simple laboratory tests performed and results obtained at examination. Each indicator was validated against a confirmatory laboratory test considered the gold standard in indicating the presence or absence of an STD. Male military members, women seeking prenatal care, and female prostitutes were the three population groups chosen. With the exception of the rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test for syphilis, symptoms, signs, and simple laboratory tests failed to accurately predict STD in individuals in all three of these population groups. Indicators for the major STD other than syphilis among populations not seeking STD care will have to be the "gold standard laboratory tests" until easy-to-perform and low-cost alternatives are found.