UNRAVELING THE PATTERN OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES AT A TEACHING HOSPITAL IN DEHRADUN: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

WHO estimated that approximately 448 million new cases of four main curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs), viz., gonorrhoea, syphilis, chlamydial infection, and trichomoniasis occur every year, nearly 80% of which in developing countries. STIs has proven role in facilitation of HIV infection and also increases susceptibility to other STIs. most of then STIs , both ulcerative and non-ulcerative, are prevalent in India and constitute one of the major health problem. Their epidemiological and clinical picture is being modified in the context of ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic, especially during the last decade.

This study was undertaken to find out the pattern of sexually transmitted infections. This is a hospital - based descriptive study. A total of 52 patients were included in the study and verbal consent was taken. History and clinical examinations were performed and the data were recorded and analyzed.

Total of 52 patients were diagnosed with Sexually Transmitted Infections, out of which 75% were male and 25% were female. The most common diagnosis was gonorrhea (34.6%) followed by condyloma accuminata (32.7%), latent syphilis (15.4%) non-gonococcal urethritis (9.6%), vaginal discharge syndrome (5.8%)and HIV (1%). Age group 21 to 30 years were the maximum sufferers.

Gonorrhoea still comprises a major bulk of STI. Majority of the patients suffering from sexually transmitted infections were in the age group 21-30 years. A trend of sexual exposure during adolescence with multiple partners and inconsistent use of condoms was observed as a common factor in its promotion despite efforts from various sectors.