A GROUNDBREAKING large-scale study, presented today at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress 2024, has provided an unprecedented global overview of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This comprehensive research highlights the widespread prevalence of STIs across different regions, age groups, and socio-economic factors, highlighting the critical need for improved prevention and management strategies worldwide.
Conducted as part of the ALL PROJECT, the study surveyed over 50,000 individuals aged 16 and above across 20 countries, spanning five continents. Participants were asked about their demographic information and STI experience in the last 12 months. The study aimed to uncover key factors that influence STI prevalence, including gender, geographical location, education level, and ethnic background.
In total 50,552 people were interviewed, with results revealing that 3.82% of respondents reported having had an STI in the past year (4.28% male, 3.35% female, P<0.001). Prevalence was also notably higher among younger people. Those under 30 had the highest rates at 5.36%, compared to 4.11% for individuals aged 30-55, and just 1.47% for those over 55.
The study’s multivariate analysis revealed that individuals without higher education were significantly more likely to have an STI (odds ratio [OR] = 1.32, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15–1.51, p < 0.0001). Geographical disparities were also significant, with higher STI rates reported in Europe and North America (OR = 1.47, [1.2–1.8], p = 0.0002), Asia (OR = 1.6, [1.2–2.14], p = 0.0016), and the Middle East (OR = 1.72, [1.33–2.23], p < 0.0001). Lower rates were observed in Africa and Latin America.
The study also revealed significant variations in STI prevalence based on ethnicity, income, and geographic location. Individuals of Asian ethnicity (OR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.33–0.58, p < 0.0001) and White ethnicity (OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.44–0.65, p < 0.0001) had lower rates of STIs compared to those of mixed ethnicity. Geographically, living in Africa (OR = 0.61, [0.42–0.88], p = 0.0089) or Latin America (OR = 0.74, [0.6–0.92], p = 0.007) was associated with reduced STI prevalence compared to Europe. Additionally, individuals with lower incomes (OR = 0.51, [0.46–0.58], p < 0.0001) and those residing in rural areas (OR = 0.68, [0.59–0.79], p < 0.001) also reported lower STI rates.
The research team emphasised the importance of dermatologists in STI management and the need for increased awareness and education. The findings of this large-scale study could lead to a re-evaluation of global STI prevention and treatment strategies, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the necessary care and resources.
Abigail Craig, EMJ
Reference
Cribier A et al. Sexually transmitted diseases: An unprecedented global overview of their prevalence. Abstract 8107. EADV Congress 2024, 25-38 September, 2024.
