Profile and Risk Factors of Sexual Transmitted Infection among Homosexual and Transgender in Surakarta, Central Java

Abstract

Background: The incidence of Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) infection in gay, homosexual, and men who have sex with men (MSM) is greater than that reported in women and men who have sex with women only (MSW). As some of the affected are left untreated, elevated burden of STD is of concern. The high incidence of STD infection among MSM may be related to various individual behaviors and characteristics. This study aimed to determine the profile and risk factors of STD infection among MSM and transgender in Surakarta. Subjects and Method: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at Community Health Centers and Dr. Moewardi Hospital in Surakarta, Central Java, from March to July 2017. A sample of 190 study subjects was selected for this study. The dependent variable was HIV and STD infection. The independent variables were sexual orientation (MSM and transgender), marital status, education, meeting location of couples, and number of sexual partners. The data were collected by a set of questionnaire. Data on HIV and STD infection was obtained by various blood examination, including: syphilis, gonorrhea, non-specific urethritis, and non-specific proctitis, and acetowhite lesion examinations. The bivariate analysis was performed by chi square. Results: As many as 65 (34.2%) of the study subjects had HIV reactive. 67 (35.3%) had STD, consisting of 39 (20.5%) syphilis. 26 (13.7%) had ano-genital warts (23 anal warts and 3 penile warts). 1 (0.5%) had gonorrhea. 14 (7.4%) had non-specific proctitis. 32 (16.8%) aged <25 years, 158 (83.1%) aged over 25 years. 143 (75.3%) were single, and 109 (57.4%) had bisexual orientation. 35 (18.4%) had ≥ high school education and 145 (88.6%) had < high school. The risk of HIV and STD infection was associated with sexual orientation (MSM and transgender), education, marital status, meeting location of couples, and number of sexual partners. Conclusion: The risk of HIV and STD infections is associated with sexual orientation (MSM and transgender), marital status, education, meeting location of couples, and number of sexual partners.