Project – Assessment of perception causes and prevention of sexual transmitted infection (STI) among the adults
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
- Background to the Study
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a significant public health challenge globally, with adults, especially those in the sexually active age group, being at high risk. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), STIs are one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with millions of new infections occurring every year (WHO, 2020). The perceptions held by adults about STIs play a critical role in influencing their behaviors, such as the likelihood of engaging in safe sexual practices, seeking timely medical treatment, and participating in prevention programs. Several studies suggest that adults’ awareness and understanding of STIs, including their modes of transmission, symptoms, and prevention methods, are crucial factors that impact their health behaviors (Hawkes et al., 2017).
One of the primary causes of STIs is unprotected sexual activity. A study by Brundage et al. (2018) found that inconsistent condom use, multiple sexual partners, and a lack of regular sexual health check-ups contribute significantly to the transmission of STIs among adults. Moreover, certain social determinants, such as limited access to healthcare, socioeconomic status, education, and cultural norms, often exacerbate the risk of STI acquisition. For instance, lower levels of education and lack of awareness about sexual health have been linked to a higher risk of STIs, especially among young adults in lower-income communities (Gordon et al., 2019). The role of sexual norms and stigmatization also cannot be ignored, as these factors may discourage individuals from seeking help or discussing their sexual health openly, which in turn hampers effective prevention efforts.
In addition to unprotected sexual intercourse, behavioral factors such as substance abuse also contribute significantly to STI prevalence. Alcohol and drug use, particularly among young adults, has been associated with an increased likelihood of engaging in high-risk sexual behavior, including unprotected sex and multiple sexual partners (Williams et al., 2017). The impaired judgment caused by intoxication often leads individuals to neglect safe sex practices, thereby increasing their susceptibility to infections. Public health campaigns that aim to reduce substance use in conjunction with promoting safer sex practices may help mitigate this risk.
Prevention strategies for STIs among adults have evolved to include a variety of approaches, including education, the promotion of condom use, vaccination programs, and regular screening. Several studies have shown that knowledge of STI transmission and prevention methods significantly affects behavior. For instance, a survey conducted by Adebayo et al. (2020) in Nigeria found that individuals who received proper sexual health education were more likely to use condoms and seek regular STI screenings. Additionally, widespread vaccination programs targeting diseases such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B have proven effective in reducing the incidence of these infections, particularly among younger populations (Hutchinson et al., 2018).
Moreover, addressing social and cultural barriers to STI prevention is essential in creating more inclusive and effective interventions. Social stigma, particularly surrounding certain STIs such as HIV, can deter individuals from accessing necessary healthcare services and seeking treatment (Odeyemi et al., 2020). Studies have suggested that incorporating culturally sensitive and context-specific approaches in educational campaigns can significantly enhance the uptake of preventive measures. For example, community-based interventions that involve local leaders and influencers have been found to be effective in changing sexual health behaviors in rural areas (Sule et al., 2019). Tailoring prevention strategies to suit the specific cultural and social dynamics of a community can help improve knowledge, reduce stigma, and encourage positive behavioral changes.
The prevention of STIs among adults requires a multifaceted approach that addresses not only the biological aspects of transmission but also the social, cultural, and behavioral factors that influence individuals’ sexual health practices. Enhanced education, accessible healthcare services, and public awareness campaigns are critical in promoting safer sexual practices. Furthermore, tackling stigma, addressing substance use, and promoting regular screenings are integral components of effective STI prevention programs. As research continues to shed light on the causes and perceptions of STIs, it is essential that health interventions evolve to meet the diverse needs of the adult population.
1.2. Statement of the Problem
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to be a major public health concern, affecting millions of adults worldwide each year. Despite ongoing public health efforts to reduce the incidence of these infections, the rates remain alarmingly high, leading to significant health complications such as infertility, chronic pain, and an increased risk of HIV transmission. The persistence of STIs among adults suggests that there are critical gaps in knowledge, perception, and preventive behaviors. Addressing these gaps is essential to improving sexual health outcomes and reducing the burden of STIs on individuals and healthcare systems.
One of the core issues contributing to the spread of STIs is the inadequate perception and awareness among adults regarding the nature of these infections. Many adults lack comprehensive knowledge about how STIs are transmitted, their symptoms, and the importance of early detection and treatment. This lack of awareness often results in risky sexual behaviors, such as unprotected sex and having multiple sexual partners, which significantly increase the likelihood of infection. Moreover, misconceptions about STIs may lead individuals to underestimate their risk or delay seeking medical care, thereby exacerbating the spread of infections within communities.
Behavioral factors play a critical role in the prevalence of STIs among adults. Risky behaviors, including inconsistent condom use, engaging with multiple partners, and substance abuse, are major contributors to the transmission of STIs. Alcohol and drug use, in particular, impair judgment and lead to decisions that increase the risk of infection, such as neglecting the use of protection during sexual activity. Additionally, certain social determinants, such as low socioeconomic status, limited educational attainment, and lack of access to healthcare services, further increase individuals’ vulnerability to STIs. Addressing these behavioral and social factors is crucial for reducing the overall incidence of STIs.
Access to effective STI prevention programs remains inconsistent across different populations, contributing to the ongoing challenge of controlling these infections. While many public health initiatives promote condom use, regular screenings, and vaccination programs, the reach and effectiveness of these efforts vary widely. Adults in rural or underserved areas often face barriers such as limited availability of healthcare services, stigma associated with seeking sexual health care, and a lack of targeted educational programs. These disparities create gaps in prevention efforts and hinder timely diagnosis and treatment, allowing STIs to spread unchecked.
Social stigma and cultural barriers further complicate efforts to address STIs. The stigma associated with contracting an STI often leads to shame, secrecy, and fear, discouraging individuals from seeking necessary medical care or discussing their sexual health openly with partners or healthcare providers. In many communities, cultural norms may inhibit open dialogue about sexual health, reinforcing silence and misinformation. The fear of judgment or discrimination not only affects individual health-seeking behavior but also perpetuates the spread of infections by discouraging testing and treatment.
A significant gap in comprehensive sexual health education exacerbates the problem of STI prevention among adults. Many individuals receive limited or no education about safe sexual practices, STI transmission, and the importance of regular health screenings. Without accurate and comprehensive information, adults are less likely to adopt preventive measures, increasing their risk of infection. Comprehensive sexual health education is essential for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual health and to reduce the stigma surrounding STIs. Public health strategies must prioritize education to ensure that adults are well-informed and equipped to protect themselves and their partners.
In conclusion, the continued high rates of STIs among adults are driven by inadequate knowledge, risky sexual behaviors, limited access to healthcare services, social stigma, and insufficient sexual health education. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving public awareness, expanding access to prevention and treatment services, reducing stigma, and enhancing sexual health education. Understanding the factors that influence adults’ perceptions and behaviors regarding STIs is critical for developing effective public health interventions. Failure to address these challenges will result in continued health risks for individuals and communities, underscoring the urgency of strengthening STI prevention and management efforts.
1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of the study is to assess perception causes and prevention of sexual transmitted infection (STI) among the adults in selected community inOla Oluwa local government area Osun state. The specific objectives are:
- To assess the current knowledge and awareness levels of adults in the selected community regarding sexual transmitted infections (STIs).
- To identify the common causes and risk factors associated with the transmission of STIs among adults in the selected community.
- To evaluate the existing prevention methods and practices used by adults in the selected community to protect themselves from STIs.
- To analyze the perception and attitudes of adults in the selected community towards STIs and sexual health.
1.4. Research Questions
The research questions are buttressed below:
- What is the current knowledge and awareness level of adults in the selected community regarding sexual transmitted infections (STIs)?
- What are the common causes and risk factors associated with the transmission of STIs among adults in the selected community?
- What prevention methods and practices are currently used by adults in the selected community to protect themselves from STIs?
- What are the perceptions and attitudes of adults in the selected community towards STIs and sexual health?
1.5. Research hypothesis
The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:
Ho: Knowledge and awareness levels of adults in the selected community will not affect the rate of sexual transmitted infections (STIs).
H1: Knowledge and awareness levels of adults in the selected community will affect the rate of sexual transmitted infections (STIs).
1.6. Significance of the Study
The assessment of perception, causes, and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among adults in the selected community of Ola Oluwa Local Government Area in Osun State holds significant importance for public health and community well-being. Understanding the community’s knowledge and attitudes toward STIs is crucial in identifying gaps in awareness and misconceptions that may contribute to the spread of these infections. This study will provide valuable insights into how adults in this specific community perceive STIs, which can inform the design of targeted educational and prevention programs. By addressing knowledge gaps, the study aims to promote safer sexual practices and enhance overall sexual health awareness among adults in the community.
Furthermore, identifying the causes and risk factors associated with STIs in the Ola Oluwa community will enable healthcare providers and policymakers to develop more effective intervention strategies. Risk behaviors such as unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and substance abuse vary across communities due to cultural, social, and economic factors. By pinpointing the specific causes prevalent in this community, the study will contribute to tailoring prevention efforts to address local behaviors and practices. This targeted approach ensures that interventions are culturally appropriate and more likely to be accepted by the community, thereby improving their effectiveness.
The study’s focus on prevention is equally significant, as it seeks to evaluate the current preventive measures adopted by adults in the Ola Oluwa community. This includes the use of condoms, regular health screenings, and participation in sexual health education programs. By assessing the community’s engagement with these preventive strategies, the study will highlight areas where intervention is needed. The findings can guide local health authorities in strengthening existing prevention programs or introducing new ones, ensuring that the community has access to the necessary resources and information to reduce the risk of STI transmission.
Additionally, the study will help reduce the stigma associated with STIs in the community. Stigma often discourages individuals from seeking information, getting tested, or accessing treatment, which can lead to increased infection rates and adverse health outcomes. By exploring community attitudes toward STIs, the study aims to foster open dialogue and reduce misconceptions and shame surrounding the topic. Promoting an environment where individuals feel comfortable discussing and addressing their sexual health is vital for the success of any prevention and treatment efforts.
From a broader perspective, this study will contribute to the body of knowledge on STIs in rural and semi-urban communities in Nigeria. While much research on STIs focuses on urban populations, rural areas often face unique challenges related to healthcare access, cultural beliefs, and educational opportunities. By focusing on the Ola Oluwa community, the study will provide data that can be compared with findings from other communities, helping to shape national public health strategies and policies. The insights gained can be used to enhance STI prevention and control efforts across similar communities in Osun State and beyond.
Lastly, the study has the potential to empower the community by involving them in the research process and raising awareness about STIs and their prevention. Educating adults about the causes and risks associated with STIs, as well as effective prevention methods, will enable them to make informed decisions about their sexual health. Empowered individuals are more likely to adopt safe sexual practices, seek medical care when needed, and participate in community health programs. Ultimately, this study aims to improve the overall health outcomes of the Ola Oluwa community by reducing the prevalence of STIs and fostering a culture of informed and responsible sexual health practices.
1.7. Scope of the Study
The study examines the assessment of perception causes and prevention of sexual transmitted infection (STI) among the adults in selected community in Ola Oluwa local government area Osun state. The study is limited to young adults in Ola Oluwa local government area Osun state.
1.8. Operational Definition of Terms
Assessment: Assessment refers to the systematic process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting information to understand a particular issue or condition. In the context of this study, assessment involves evaluating adults’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including how they perceive the risks, causes, and preventive measures. The goal of assessment is to identify gaps in knowledge, misconceptions, and behaviors that may contribute to the spread of STIs, which can inform the development of targeted health interventions.
Perception: Perception is the way individuals interpret and understand information based on their experiences, beliefs, and attitudes. It shapes how people view and respond to specific issues or phenomena. In this study, perception refers to how adults in the Ola Oluwa community perceive sexually transmitted infections—whether they recognize the risks, believe in the effectiveness of prevention methods, and understand the symptoms and consequences of STIs. Perception influences health behaviors, including the willingness to engage in safe sex practices and seek medical care.
Causes: Causes refer to the factors or conditions that lead to the occurrence of a particular event or condition. For sexually transmitted infections, causes typically include behaviors and conditions that facilitate the transmission of infections between individuals. Common causes of STIs include unprotected sexual intercourse, having multiple sexual partners, engaging in sexual activity under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and lack of regular health screenings. Biological factors, such as the presence of infectious pathogens like bacteria, viruses, or parasites, are also direct causes of STIs.
Prevention: Prevention encompasses strategies and actions taken to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading infections or diseases. STI prevention methods aim to minimize exposure to infection and include practices such as using condoms consistently and correctly, reducing the number of sexual partners, getting vaccinated against infections like human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B, and undergoing regular STI screenings. Education on safe sex practices and open communication between sexual partners are also critical components of prevention. Prevention efforts focus on both individual behaviors and broader public health interventions.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI): A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection that is primarily spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. STIs are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can be transmitted from one person to another through the exchange of bodily fluids or direct contact with infected tissues. Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), human papillomavirus (HPV), and trichomoniasis. Symptoms of STIs vary but can include genital sores, discharge, itching, pain during intercourse, and more severe complications if left untreated. Early detection and treatment are crucial in managing STIs and preventing their spread.
Project – Assessment of perception causes and prevention of sexual transmitted infection (STI) among the adults