Sexually transmitted infection incidence among adolescents in Ireland

Abstract

ObjectiveThe burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) rests with young people, yet in Ireland there has been very little research into this population. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence rate and establish risk factors that predict STI occurrence among adolescents in Ireland.DesignRoutine diagnostic, demographic and behavioural data from first-time visits to three screening centres in the southwest of Ireland were obtained. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess risk factors that predict STI occurrence among adolescents.ResultsA total of 2784 first-time patients, aged 13–19 years, received 3475 diagnoses between January 1999 and September 2009; 1168 (42%) of adolescents had notifiable STIs. The incidence rate of STIs is 225/100 000 person-years. Univariate analysis identified eligible risk factors (p<0.2) for inclusion in the multivariable model. Multivariable logistic regression showed the dominant risk factors for STI diagnosis to be: males who sometimes [odds ratio (OR) 2.02] or never (OR 1.83) use condoms; and females 18–19 years (OR 2.26) and 16–18 years (OR 1.8), with 2 (OR 1.33) or 3+ (OR 1.56) partners in the last 12 months, who are non-intravenous drug users (OR 0.72), are most likely to receive a positive STI diagnosis.ConclusionsSTI diagnosis has become increasingly common in Ireland. The proportion of notifications among those aged under 20 years is increasing. These data illustrate the significance of age, condom use and number of sexual partners as risk factors for STI diagnosis. Furthermore, providing data for the first time, we report on the high incidence rate of STIs among adolescents in Ireland. The high levels of risk-taking behaviour and STI acquisition are highlighted and suggest that there is a need for an integrated public health approach to combat this phenomenon in the adolescent population.

Men's perspectives on cancer prevention behaviors associated with HPV

“…Sexual health demographic variables such as participant's number of sexual partners, history of contracting an STI, and condom use highlighted emerging risk factors among this population; such findings are not uncommon, especially among this age group . In an Irish study, from a total of 2784 first time STI clinic patients, aged 13–19 years, 1172 were diagnosed with a notifiable STI between January 1999 and September 2009 . Dominant risk factors associated with STI diagnosis included men who sometimes or never use condoms .…”

“…24 In an Irish study, from a total of 2784 first time STI clinic patients, aged [13][14][15][16][17][18][19] years, 1172 were diagnosed with a notifiable STI between January 1999 and September 2009. 25 Dominant risk factors associated with STI diagnosis included men who sometimes or never use condoms. 25 The significance of age, condom use, and number of sexual partners as risk factors toward adolescents being diagnosed with STIs highlights the need for an integrated public health approach.…”

“…25 Dominant risk factors associated with STI diagnosis included men who sometimes or never use condoms. 25 The significance of age, condom use, and number of sexual partners as risk factors toward adolescents being diagnosed with STIs highlights the need for an integrated public health approach. 25 Protecting oneself against HPV and HPV-related diseases was a major influencing factor in receiving the HPV vaccine.…”

“…25 The significance of age, condom use, and number of sexual partners as risk factors toward adolescents being diagnosed with STIs highlights the need for an integrated public health approach. 25 Protecting oneself against HPV and HPV-related diseases was a major influencing factor in receiving the HPV vaccine. If the HPV vaccine was associated with cancer prevention during health promotion strategies, men may be more inclined to receive the vaccine.…”

Sexually transmitted infections in adolescents in Ireland: data quality and completeness are improving

“…We read with interest the online version of Davoren et al 's1 article on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among adolescents in Ireland. They point out limitations in national surveillance information, and the fact that surveillance data are available only in aggregate format.…”