A study of sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) in a coastal city Mangaluru, Karnataka

Abstract

Background: STI (Sexually Transmitted Infections) is common among ‘high-risk groups’ in India, a term used by the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) which includes men who have sex with men (MSM) and others. Sexual transmission of HIV, most prominent STI between men could be a major cause for concern in most parts of India. HIV infection among MSM has been increasing in recent years round the world, particularly in Asia. Objectives: 1. To determine the sociodemographic characteristics of men who have sex with men. 2. To estimate the magnitude of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in men who have sex with men. Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out using structured, pretested questionnaire at Hind Kusht Nivaran Sangh, Mangaluru. Face to face interviews of the selected participants was done and data were recorded after obtaining their consent. Results: A total of 102 MSM were interviewed and the data was collected. The common presenting symptoms were pain while urinating (33.33 %) and least common was bleeding while defecating (1.9 %). The most common morbidity of study population was urinary tract infection (38.23 %) and proctitis (25.4 %) and 3.92 % subjects had HIV/AIDS. Conclusion: Health sector should include safe access to information and education about HIV and other STIs, condoms, water-based lubricants, HIV testing and counselling, and STI services.

Keywords

• HIV
• Prevalence
• Men who have sex with men
• Sexually transmitted infections
• India