Prevalence of fungal, bacterial, and viral sexually transmitted diseases as well as monthly trends in Tigray, Ethiopia's government health facilities, July 2019–June 2020.

Author(s):

Mulugeta Tilahun Gebremedhin*, Ataklti Gessesse Teka, Gebrecherkos Teame Gebrehiwot, Mesfin Tesfay Zelalem, Hayelom Kahsay Bayrrue and Gebreselama Gebreyohannes Gebregiorgis

Objective of the study: To assess the prevalence and trends of bacterial, fungal and viral STIs in our region.

Methods: A retrospective study on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) in healthcare facilities in the Tigray regions was carried out between July 2019 and June 2020. Descriptive statistics analysis was utilized to compare prevalence measures and trends across age groups, sexes, and months. Tables and line graphs were used to present the indings. Using the Chi-square test, a relationship between the disease conditions and was found.

Main outcome measures: Measures of prevalence and trend.

Result: 3500 patients who visited the hospital are included in this analysis. Of those who received a diagnosis, 1657 (47.3%) were in females and 1843 (52.7%) in males. When it came to STIs spread by viruses, males were more affected than females among these individuals, but females were more affected than males when STIs were spread by bacterial and fungal infections. Hepatitis B (16.9%), gonorrhea (16.3%), hepatitis C (13.6%), syphilis (11.8%), genital herpes (8.8%), genital warts (7.5%), and chlamydia (6.8%) are the conditions that affect the genital area. The pattern of sexual transmission was intermittent.

Conclusion: Adults are the main target of sexually transmitted infections, which vary in frequency depending on gender and age. The results provide information about the epidemiological state of the nation and suggest future preventative measures. Reducing the prevalence of STDs requires concentrating interventions on high-risk individuals in the 14-29 age range. Consequently, it is advised to create and fortify reproductive health centers on campuses, spread awareness of sexual and reproductive health issues, including STI modes of transmission, prevention, and health-seeking behaviors, as well as to improve condom availability and information.