Research Article: Prevalence and factors associated with self-reported sexually transmitted infections in Myanmar: analysis of national survey data
Abstract:
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to pose a significant public health issue worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, nationally representative evidence on the prevalence and factors associated with self-reported STIs (SR-STIs) in Myanmar remains limited. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of SR-STIs, identify factors associated with SR-STIs, and examine differences in STI risks among sexually experienced women and men in Myanmar.
This study analyzed secondary data from the 2015–16 Myanmar Demographic and Health Survey. A total of 8,693 women and 3,196 men aged 15–49 years who had ever had sexual intercourse were included in the analysis. Survey-weighted descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations, and survey-weighted logistic regression analyses were conducted separately for women and men to identify factors associated with SR-STIs.
The prevalence of SR-STIs was higher among women than men (8.0% vs. 6.7%). Among women, medium and higher HIV knowledge level, barriers to healthcare access, and current contraceptive use were significantly associated with increased odds of SR-STIs. Women residing in coastal, delta, and central zones, as well as those in the richer wealth quintile, had lower odds of SR-STIs compared with their counterparts. Among men, sexual debut after 18 years was associated with lower odds of SR-STIs, while married men had lower odds compared with single men.
The findings provide nationally representative evidence that may inform gender-sensitive STI prevention strategies, efforts to improve access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services, and the integration of STI prevention into HIV and family planning programs. Given the age of the data, updated STI surveillance and population-based studies are needed to assess the current burden of STIs and guide contemporary prevention and control strategies in Myanmar. Nevertheless, these findings provide an empirical foundation for understanding the burden of SR-STIs and its associated factors for informing future research and public health planning.
Introduction:
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to pose a significant public health issue worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, nationally representative evidence on the prevalence and factors associated with self-reported STIs (SR-STIs) in Myanmar remains limited. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of SR-STIs, identify factors associated with SR-STIs, and examine differences in STI risks among sexually experienced women and men in Myanmar.
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