title: Gonorrhoea in women of differing ethnic origin in Auckland.
abstract: One hundred and forty-eight women with gonorrhoea attending the Auckland VD clinic were assessed for epidemiological factors, efficacy of diagnostic tests and differences relating to ethnic origin. Maoris and Polynesians showed a greater incidence than would be expected from population levels. One hundred and two (69 percent) were below the age of 25 years. Overall 34 (23 percent) were unemployed with a preponderance amongst the Maoris (32 percent). One hundred and twelve (76% percent) presented as contacts of men with gonorrhoea and 97 (66 percent) were asymptomatic. Immediate smears were positive in 130 (88 percent), and cultures in 144 (97 percent). Europeans had a higher incidence of rectal (36 percent) and throat (11 percent) involvement. The defaulter rate was high in Maoris (41 percent) and Polynesians (43 percent). Other factors considered are marital status, contraception, socioeconomic levels and associated infections. The findings are discussed in relation to ethnic origin and their implications as regards control and education.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005006:Ethnicity; D005260:Female; D006069:Gonorrhea / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009520:New Zealand; D010044:Outpatient Clinics, Hospital / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010352:Patient Dropouts; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors