Effectiveness of interventions to reduce sexually transmitted infections and blood-borne viruses in incarcerated adult populations: a systematic review protocol

Abstract

Objective: This review will identify, synthesize, and make recommendations regarding the effectiveness of interventions to reduce sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and blood-borne viruses (BBVs) in incarcerated adult settings. Introduction: High-risk sexual behaviors, intravenous drug use, piercing, and tattooing are well documented within incarceration environments. Despite the World Health Organization’s Global Health Sector Strategy on Sexually Transmitted Infections 2016–2021 and the Global Health Sector strategies on, respectively, HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections for the period 2022–2030, STI rates within adult incarceration environments continue to rise. Identifying and implementing best-practice interventions to prevent and manage STIs and BBVs will aid infection reduction in correctional settings. The review results will inform the development of educational programs, health promotion, and policies and procedures to improve health outcomes for incarcerated populations. Inclusion criteria: This review will consider studies in any language from any adult incarceration facility. Studies set in juvenile facilities or detention centers will be excluded. Any intervention for preventing or reducing STI and/or BBV transmission will be included. Methods: This review will follow the JBI methodology for systematic reviews of effectiveness. Databases to be searched will include PubMed, CINAHL (EBSCO), Ovid Library, PsycINFO (EBSCO), Cochrane CENTRAL, and Scopus. Two independent reviewers will screen titles and abstracts and assess full-text citations against the inclusion criteria. Methodological quality will be appraised using JBI’s standardized critical appraisal instruments. Where possible, studies will be pooled using meta-analysis. Where statistical pooling is not possible, findings will be presented in narrative format. Certainty of evidence will be ascertained using the GRADE approach. Review registration: PROSPERO CRD42022325077