title: [Sexually transmitted infections: profile of care in border areas of Central America (2007-2010)].
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To analyze the profile of care for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in health centers in border areas of Central America during 2007-2010.
  
  
  METHODS
  Cross-sectional study in a sample of 3 357 patients. Doctors were trained and medicines, condoms and HIV testing (basic package of care [BPC]) were supplied. Sample was characterized according to sociodemographic variables. Factors associated with the probability of receiving the BPC were identified.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Sixty six percent were 25-59 years old, and 93.2% were women. The most frequently diagnosed syndrome was vaginal discharge associated with candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis and gonorrhea. Sixty six percent of prescriptions were adhered to the international recommendations. Only 10% received the complete BPC.The likelihood of receiving it was lower in women.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  It is not enough to increase service delivery capacity to change care practices. These are deeply rooted in the sociocultural context. Highlights gendered medical practices that adversely affect the profile of care.
authors.affiliation: Centro de Investigación en Evaluación y Encuestas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, México.
authors.forename: Edson
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Serván-Mori
authors.forename: René
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Leyva-Flores
authors.forename: Ileana
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Heredia-Pi
authors.forename: Rodrigo
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: García-Cerde
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002489:Central America; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D013997:Time Factors