Risk factors for sexually transmitted disease in Harare: a case-control study.
OBJECTIVE
To obtain information on risk factors and health-seeking behavior of men with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) attending primary care clinics.


METHODS
Unmatched case-control.


METHODS
Cases consisted of 256 consecutive men with genital ulcer disease (GUD) and 256 with other STDs. Control subjects (N = 256) were recruited from every third man with non-STD-related complaints. All subjects were at least 15 years of age. A structured questionnaire was administered.


RESULTS
Genital ulcer disease cases reported more frequent sexual intercourse with a commercial sex worker (odds ratio [OR] = 17.4; 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 7.8-40.0) and a recent new sexual contact (OR = 6.7; CI = 3.3-14.1). Similarly, STD cases reported more frequent sexual contact with a commercial sex worker (OR = 3.4; CI = 2.0-5.6) and a recent new sexual contact (OR = 7.9; CI = 3.9-16.3). Reported condom use was less than 30% with all partner types. Of all STD cases, 80% sought treatment at the primary care clinics, with 35% delaying more than 7 days before seeking treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Culturally appropriate behavioral educational programs are advocated to reduce the risk of transmission and the period for seeking treatment for all STDs.
Wellington
M
M
City Health Department, Harare, Zimbabwe.
Ndowa
F
F
Mbengeranwa
L
L
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002602:Chancroid / Q000209:etiology*; D017280:Condoms; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016017:Odds Ratio; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D011320:Primary Health Care; D012307:Risk Factors; D011477:Sex Work; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014504:Urban Health; D015030:Zimbabwe