The case for social marketing in gonorrhoea prevention: insights from sexual lifestyles in Glasgow genitourinary medicine clinic attendees.
We conducted a matched case-control study to investigate social factors associated with gonorrhoea acquisition among genitourinary (GU) medicine clinic attendees, designed to inform appropriate prevention strategies. Detailed social and behavioural data were elicited using a self-completed questionnaire. The effect sizes of these characteristics were quantified using univariate and multivariable conditional logistic regression in 53 cases and 106 matched controls. Homo-bisexual orientation was the strongest independent predictor of gonorrhoea acquisition (Adjusted odds ratio 31.1 (95% confidence intervals, 3.09-312.92). Other independent predictors were not currently being in a relationship and concordant residential characteristics. Three principal implications for sexual health policy were identified; social marketing approaches to gonorrhoea prevention should focus on gay men and individuals not in established relationships; gonorrhoea prevention should be more closely integrated with wider social inclusion policies; finally, more proactive, systematic and theory-based approaches should capitalize on opportunities for sexual health promotion in GU medicine clinic settings.
Scoular
Anne
A
MRC Social & Public Health Sciences Unit, Glasgow. anne-s@sphsu.mrc.ac.uk
Abu-Rajab
Kirsty
K
Winter
Andy
A
Connell
Judith
J
Hart
Graham
G
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000554:Ambulatory Care Facilities; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D005260:Female; D006069:Gonorrhea / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D012747:Sexual Partners; D040241:Social Marketing; D006113:United Kingdom; D014566:Urogenital System