Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among first time visitors at STIs clinic in Hangzhou, China: Assessing the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic

Background

This study assesses the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in first time visitors to the STIs clinic in Hangzhou, China, considering different genders, ages and symptoms. And also explores howthe COVID-19 pandemic has affected on STIs.

Methods

From 2019 to 2023, 27,283 first time visitors were tested for nine distinct STIs, including Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), syphilis, Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2), Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Mycoplasma genitalium (MG), and vaginal Candida.

Results

Symptomatic male and female visitors showed overall STI-positive rates of 39.27% and 59.20%, respectively(p < .001). The top three pathogens in both genders were HPV (47.56% and 56.71%), UU (29.21% and 56.47%), and HSV-2 (22.41% and 52.94%). Among asymptomatic visitors, the total STI-positive rate was 36.63% in males and 52.03% in females. Age-stratified analysis revealed higher STI rates in visitors ≤ 20 or >50 years, regardless of gender and symptoms. During the COVID-19 pandemic, symptomatic visitors showed lower positive rates for HPV, HIV, syphilis, and HSV-2, while Candida, UU, CT, NG, and multiple infections increased. Among asymptomatic visitors, HPV had the lowest positive rate, while NG and multiple infections increased during the pandemic.

Conclusion

STI prevalence is notably high, particularly in those aged ≤ 20 and >50 years. It emphasizes the need for enhanced health education, condom use, and vaccination. The COVID-19 pandemic impacting STIs through varied factors, such as reduced sexual activity and clinical service interruption.