Immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR as ancillary tools in the diagnosis of acquired oral syphilis.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate Treponema pallidum detection using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays in acquired oral syphilis (AOS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-seven paraffin-embedded tissue specimens of AOS (32 secondary and five primary) were analyzed, integrating double-positive serological results with clinicodemographic and histopathological data. T. pallidum presence was semiquantitatively assessed by IHC, while RT-PCR targeted T. pallidum DNA. Sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the curve (AUC) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: The study included mostly females (62.2%) with a mean age of 27.1 years. T. pallidum was detected in all samples by IHC, predominantly in the epithelium across all layers (43.2%). RT-PCR identified T. pallidum DNA in 32 cases, with negative results observed in cases of secondary AOS. The AUC for IHC versus disease stage was 62.5% (95% CI: 45.1-77.8), and for RT-PCR, it was 57.8% (95% CI: 40.5-73.8). The AUC comparing IHC to RT-PCR was 83.8% (95% CI: 67.9-93.8). CONCLUSION: This study represents the first attempt to evaluate the proposed direct detection algorithm for AOS. IHC and RT-PCR serve as ancillary tools for detecting T. pallidum in both primary and secondary stages of AOS.

Spatial and trend analysis of gestational syphilis cases in Brazil from 2011 to 2020: an ecological study.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the rate of gestational syphilis (GS) based on temporal trends over 11 years, as well as the spatial distribution of GS in Brazil, based on the identification of spatial clusters. METHODOLOGY: An ecological, using Brazil and its regions as an analysis unit, based on gestational syphilis data reported in the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), from 2011 to 2020. Thematic maps were built for spatial data analysis, and the Prais-Winsten autoregressive model was used to verify the trend. Spatial analysis identified the distribution of clusters (high-high; low-low; high-low and low-high) of distribution of GS across Brazilian municipalities, using a 5% significance level. RESULTS: Gestational syphilis experienced a considerable increase in cases during the studied period, with a peak of 37,436 cases in 2018. The spatial distribution of the disease is heterogeneous in the country. A growing trend was observed in all states of Brazil, except for Espírito Santo, where it remained stationary, with a monthly variation of 10.32%. CONCLUSION: The spatial and temporal trend analysis point to syphilis as an important public health problem. The numbers are alarming and show the urgent need for measures to prevent and control syphilis during pregnancy.

Epidemiological and clinical profile of HTLV-1 patients: a closer look at a reference center in Bahia, Brazil.

The human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) affects over 5 million people worldwide and is endemic in Brazil. Though HTLV-1 is a notifiable disease, the last epidemiological report regarding HTLV-1 infection covered the period from 2012 to 2019. To understand the specific challenges and to develop the best strategies for controlling HTLV-1 infection, it is important to know the characteristics of each region providing care to people living with this virus. This descriptive cross-sectional study evaluated patients treated at the HTLV reference center in Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil, between July 2021 and August 2022. The data were obtained through the analysis of medical records and routine clinical consultations. A total of 67 patients were evaluated, with 79.1% being female, 79.1% identifying as black, indigenous, and people of color, 37.31% being married, 80.6% identifying as heterosexual, and 59.7% reporting inconsistent condom use. Additionally, 37.3% of the patients were diagnosed with HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), a chronic disease with a considerable effect on the quality of life. Furthermore, 53.7% of the patients had incomplete/complete elementary education, and 52.2% had an income of up to one minimum wage. The data highlight the necessity for more specific public policies (such as health education strategies, aimed at reducing the number of new infections) targeting the described at-risk population.

Concepciones de usuarios sobre nuevas vías de administración de profilaxis pre-exposición para el VIH / Users' expectations of the new pre-exposure prophylaxis for the HIV modalities

Resumen Este artículo tiene como objetivo discutir las concepciones de los Hombres Gay, Hombres Bisexuales y una Mujer Transgénero que usan o quieren usar profilaxis previa a la exposición por el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana oral (PrEP) sobre nuevas vías de administración. Fueron entrevistados 17 usuarios del BCN Checkpoint. Las entrevistas fueron grabadas en audio, sometidas a análisis categorial temático teniendo en cuenta la perspectiva praxeográfica. Todos están adaptados al uso de la PrEP diaria y a demanda. En relación con las nuevas vías de administración (PrEP inyección intramuscular cada dos meses; pastilla mensual; inyección subcutánea cada seis meses) todos son muy receptivos a esas posibilidades, pero les falta información sobre las especificidades de cada una de ellas y una evaluación específica de sus necesidades. Tanto la satisfacción con el uso de PrEP oral, como las expectativas sobre las nuevas vías de administración son positivas. Sin embargo, lo más importante para los/a entrevistados/a es la garantía de que tendrán seguimiento para continuar cuidando de la salud afectivo-sexual, lo que no depende del tipo de vía de administración.

Abstract This article aims to discuss the expectations of Homosexual Men, Bisexual Men and a Transgender Woman, who use or want to use an oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) about PrEP modalities. Sixteen PrEP users, who are followed up in the BCN Checkpoint, were interviewed,. The interviews were audio-recorded, subjected to thematic categorical analysis within the theoretical framework from the praxiographic perspective. They are all adapted to the use of daily oral and event-based PrEP. In relation to the new PrEP modalities (monthly pill; intramuscular injection every two months; subcutaneous injection every six months), they are all very receptive to these possibilities, but they lack information on the specificities of each and specific assessment of their needs. Comments about the use of oral PrEP are positive, and expectations regarding the new PrEP modalities are visibly high. However, the most important thing for the interviewees is the guarantee that they will have follow-up appointments to continue taking care of their affective-sexual health, which is not dependent on the type of PrEP modalities.

Sexual risk behavior and knowledge about sexually transmitted infections in a university population in Sorocaba, Brazil / Comportamento sexual de risco e conhecimento sobre infecções sexualmente transmissíveis em uma população universitária na cidade de Sorocaba/SP

INTRODUCTION: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health problem to which young people are highly exposed and knowledge about vulnerabilities that affect them is needed. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the knowledge about STIs and sexual behavior of a university population in the city of Sorocaba/SP. METHODS: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with data collection realized by an online application with qualitative and quantitative characteristics. RESULTS: Four hundred and seventy-seven (477) university students from different areas of knowledge were analyzed. The majority pointed to the beginning of sexual life between 15 and 18 years old. Information about sex education was obtained mainly through parents and/ or guardians, while little additional knowledge was obtained after entering higher education. Biological and Health Sciences students achieved a higher score on the knowledge questionnaire and were less likely (0.391) to contract STIs when compared to Applied Social Sciences or Engineering students (2.8 and 2.9 more likely, respectively). CONCLUSION: Students who demonstrated greater knowledge about STIs and acquired more information on the subject during graduation were less likely to become infected, suggesting that campaigns aimed at the university public are essential for the prevention and control of these pathogens.

INTRODUÇÃO: As infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST) são um grande problema de saúde pública, ao qual os jovens apresentam alta exposição, sendo necessário um maior conhecimento sobre as vulnerabilidades que os acometem. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o conhecimento sobre as IST e o comportamento sexual de uma população universitária na cidade de Sorocaba/SP. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se um estudo descritivo, de corte transversal, com a coleta de dados realizada por meio de aplicação online de questionário com características qualitativas e quantitativas. RESULTADOS: Quatrocentos e setenta e sete (477) universitários de diferentes áreas de conhecimento foram avaliados. A maioria dos relatos apontou para o início da vida sexual entre 15 e 18 anos. As informações sobre educação sexual foram obtidas principalmente por intermédio dos pais e/ou responsáveis, enquanto pouco conhecimento adicional foi obtido após o ingresso no Ensino Superior. Estudantes de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde alcançaram o maior score no questionário sobre conhecimento e apresentaram chances menores (0,391) de contrair IST, quando comparados aos estudantes de Ciências Sociais Aplicadas ou Engenharias (2,8 e 2,9 mais chances, respectivamente). CONCLUSÃO: Os estudantes que demonstraram maior conhecimento sobre as IST e que adquiriram mais informações sobre o tema durante a graduação apresentaram chances menores de se infectar, o que sugere que campanhas destinadas ao público universitário são essenciais para a prevenção e o controle desses patógenos.

Autoeficácia do uso de preservativo entreestudantes de graduação em enfermagem / Self-efficacy of use among undergraduate nursing students / Autoeficacia del uso del condón entre estudiantes universitarios de enfermería

Objetivo: Verificar a autoeficácia no uso de preservativo de estudantes do curso de graduação em enfermagem de uma Universidade Pública Federal no interior de Minas Gerais. Métodos: Estudo observacional, transversal e descritivo com abordagem quantitativa, realizado com discentes de graduação em enfermagem. Utilizou-se um instrumento sociodemográfico e a Escala de Autoeficácia no Uso de Preservativos. Resultados: Participaram 148 estudantes, predominando na faixa etária de 18 a 25 anos (74,3%), de cor branca (52,7%), gênero feminino (82,4%) e heterossexuais (77,7%). Dos 117 (79,1%) com vida sexual ativa, 53 (45,3%) usam preservativo e 51 (43,6%) usam pílula ou injeção. Observou-se alta pontuação na autoeficácia no uso de preservativo. Houve diferenças significativas nas dimensões Habilidade, Assertividade e escore total da escala entre os que têm e os que não têm vida sexual ativa. Conclusão: Os estudantes mostraram ter conhecimento satisfatório sobre a autoeficácia do uso de preservativos, apesar da baixa adesão. Isso ressalta a importância de estratégias educativas focadas na prática efetiva e consistente do uso de preservativos para prevenção de Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis. (AU)

Objective: Verify self-efficacy in condom use among undergraduate nursing students at a Federal Public University in the interior of Minas Gerais. Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive study with a quantitative approach, conducted with undergraduate nursing students. Data were collected using a sociodemographic instrument and the Condom Use SelfEfficacy Scale. Results: A total of 148 students participated, predominantly aged 18 to 25 years (74.3%), identifying as white (52.7%), female (82.4%), and heterosexual (77.7%). Of the 117 students (79.1%) who were sexually active, 53 (45.3%) reported using condoms and 51 (43.6%) used pills or injections. High scores in condom use self-efficacy were observed. Significant differences were noted in the Skill, Assertiveness, and total score dimensions of the scale between sexually active and inactive students. Conclusion: The students demonstrated satisfactory knowledge regarding the self-efficacy of condom use, despite low adherence rates. This underscores the importance of educational strategies focused on effective and consistent condom use practices for the prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections. (AU)

Objetivo: Verificar la autoeficacia en el uso del preservativo entre estudiantes de enfermería de una Universidad Pública Federal del interior de Minas Gerais. Métodos: Estudio observacional, transversal y descriptivo con enfoque cuantitativo, realizado con estudiantes de grado en enfermería. Se utilizó un instrumento sociodemográfico y la Escala de Autoeficacia en el Uso de Preservativos. Resultados: Participaron 148 estudiantes, predominando en el rango de edad de 18 a 25 años (74,3%), de raza blanca (52,7%), género femenino (82,4%) y heterosexuales (77,7%). De los 117 (79,1%) con vida sexual activa, 53 (45,3%) usan preservativo y 51 (43,6%) usan píldora o inyección. Se observó un alto puntaje en la autoeficacia en el uso de preservativos. Hubo diferencias significativas en las dimensiones Habilidad, Asertividad y puntuación total de la escala entre los que tienen y no tienen vida sexual activa. Conclusión: Los estudiantes mostraron tener un conocimiento satisfactorio sobre la autoeficacia del uso de preservativos, apesar de la baja adhesión. Esto resalta la importancia de estrategias educativas enfocadas en la práctica efectiva y consistente del uso de preservativos para la prevención de Infecciones Sexualmente Transmisibles. (AU)

A enfermagem e o letramento em saúde no contexto do hiv/aids, tuberculose, hepatites virais e infecções sexualmente transmissíveis / Nursing and health literacy in the context of hiv/aids, tuberculosis, viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections / Enfermería y alfabetización en salud en el contexto del vih/sida, tuberculosis, hepatitis viral e infecciones de transmisión sexual

Objetivo: identificar o Letramento em Saúde (LS), relacionados ao HIV/aids, à Tuberculose, às Hepatites Virais e às Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (IST), na área de conhecimento da Enfermagem. Métodos: Pesquisa exploratória, descritiva, com base em materiais documentais, acerca do HIV/aids, tuberculose, hepatites virais e IST, no campo da Enfermagem, considerando as produções de dissertações e teses, até o ano de 2023. Resultados: Elencou-se 62 produções abordando o LS na área de conhecimento em Enfermagem, sendo a primeira em 2012. Após análise, identificou-se nove estudos: três teses (33,3%) e seis dissertações (66,7%), sendo, cinco (55,6%) de HIV/ Aids, um (11,1%) de tuberculose, um (11,1%) de hepatite C e dois (22,2%) de IST. Conclusão: As produções incipientes sobre LS no contexto do HIV/aids, tuberculose, hepatites virais e IST, bem como, na área de Enfermagem, requer o desenvolvimento de novas investigações, visto a proposta de eliminar essas doenças/ infecções como problema de saúde pública até 2030. Faz-se necessário compreender o LS dos indivíduos nessas áreas, como ferramenta para potencializar a atenção prestada, principalmente, no contexto da APS, considerando a atuação da enfermagem como estratégica para o planejamento e a oferta do cuidado e para a promoção do autocuidado. (AU)

Objective: to identify Health Literacy (HL), related to HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), around nursing knowledge. Methods: This is an exploratory, descriptive research, based on documentary materials, about HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, viral hepatitis and STIs, in the field of nursing, considering the production of dissertations and theses, until the year 2023. Results: 62 productions were listed addressing LS around knowledge in Nursing, the first being in 2012. After analysis, nine studies were identified: three theses (33.3%) and six dissertations (66.7%), five (55.6%) of HIV/AIDS, one (11.1%) of tuberculosis, one (11.1%) of hepatitis C and two (22.2%) of STIs. Conclusion: The incipient productions on LS in the context of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, viral hepatitis and STIs, as well as, around nursing, requires the development of new investigations, given the proposal to eliminate these diseases/infections as a public health problem by 2030. if necessary, understand the HL of individuals in these areas, as a tool to enhance the care provided, mainly in the context of PHC, considering nursing actions as strategic for planning and offering care and promoting self-care. (AU)

Objetivo: identificar la Alfabetización en Salud (AS), relacionada con VIH/SIDA, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis Virales e Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual (ITS), en el área de conocimiento de enfermería. Métodos: Se trata de una investigación exploratoria, descriptiva, basada en material documental, sobre VIH/SIDA, tuberculosis, hepatitis virales e ITS, en el campo de la enfermería, considerando la producción de disertaciones y tesis, hasta el año 2023. Resultados: 62 producciones. fueron listados abordando LS en el área de conocimiento en Enfermería, siendo el primero en 2012. Luego del análisis, se identificaron nueve estudios: tres tesis (33,3%) y seis disertaciones (66,7%), cinco (55,6%) sobre VIH/ SIDA, uno (11,1%) de tuberculosis, uno (11,1%) de hepatitis C y dos (22,2%) de ITS. Conclusión: Las incipientes producciones sobre LS en el contexto de VIH/SIDA, tuberculosis, hepatitis virales e ITS, así como así como, en el área de enfermería, requiere el desarrollo de nuevas investigaciones, ante la propuesta de eliminar estas enfermedades/infecciones como un problema de salud pública para el año 2030. De ser necesario, entender la AS de los individuos en estas áreas, como una herramienta. potenciar los cuidados prestados, principalmente en el contexto de la APS, considerando las acciones de enfermería como estratégicas para planificar y ofrecer cuidados y promover el autocuidado. (AU)

Jovens universitários e a vulnerabilidade masculina às infecções sexualmente transmissíveis / Young college students and male vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections / Jóvenes estudiantes universitarios y vulnerabilidad masculina a las infecciones de transmisión sexual

Objetivo: analisar os comportamentos sexuais e as práticas de prevenção de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis de estudantes universitários do sexo masculino. Métodos: estudo descritivo, quantitativo, transversal, realizado em uma universidade privada, no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Foi selecionada uma amostra intencional de 126 estudantes, da área de ciências humanas, na faixa etária de 18 a 29 anos. Foram atendidos todos os aspectos éticos e legais em pesquisa. Resultados: Estudantes na faixa etária entre 18-21 anos representaram 76,19% dos participantes; a maioria teve a primeira relação sexual entre 12-16 anos (71,68%) e possuíam parceiros sexuais - fixos (75,24%) e casuais (73,33%). Usaram preservativos: na sexarca 66,37% e com parceiros casuais 63,64%; não o utilizavam em todas as relações sexuais 61,06% dos participantes. Conclusão: as vulnerabilidades apontam a necessidade de estímulos à adoção de práticas profissionais voltadas à educação em saúde do homem sobre as Doenças Sexualmente Transmissíveis. (AU)

Objective: analyze the sexual behaviors and sexually transmitted infections prevention practices of male university students. Methods: descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional study carried out at a private university in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. An intentional sample of 126 students in the humanities, aged 18 to 29 years, was selected. All ethical and legal aspects of research were met. Results: Students aged between 18-21 years represented 76.19% of participants; most had their first sexual intercourse between 12-16 years old (71.68%) and had sexual partners - steady (75.24%) and casual (73.33%). Condoms were used: 66.37% at sexarche and 63.64% with casual partners; 61.06% of the participants did not use it in all sexual relations. Conclusion: the vulnerabilities point to the need to encourage the adoption of professional practices aimed at men's health education on Sexually Transmitted Diseases. (AU)

Objetivo: analizar los comportamientos sexuales y las prácticas de prevención de infecciones de transmisión sexual de estudiantes universitarios varones. Métodos: estudio descriptivo, cuantitativo, transversal, realizado en una universidad privada de Río de Janeiro, Brasil. Se seleccionó una muestra intencional de 126 estudiantes de humanidades, de 18 a 29 años. Se cumplieron todos los aspectos éticos y legales de la investigación. Resultados: Los estudiantes de 18 a 21 años representaron el 76,19% de los participantes; la mayoría tuvo su primera relación sexual entre los 12-16 años (71,68%) y tuvo parejas sexuales, estables (75,24%) y casuales (73,33%). Se utilizaron condones: 66,37% en sexarche y 63,64% con parejas casuales; El 61,06% de los participantes no lo utilizó en todas las relaciones sexuales. Conclusión: las vulnerabilidades apuntan a la necesidad de incentivar la adopción de prácticas profesionales orientadas a la educación para la salud de los hombres en Enfermedades de Transmisión Sexual. (AU)

Knowledge of the workers of the construction industry about acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and associated factors.

BACKGROUND: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) transmitted by biological, socioeconomic and cultural factors that increase the vulnerability of certain population groups such as civil construction workers. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the knowledge of workers in the construction industry about infection by HIV and associated factors. METHODS: A cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted, including 381 construction workers, in the cities of João Pessoa, Cabedelo, and Santa Rita, in the State of Paraíba, Brazil, performed through interviews, using a data collection instrument with social demographic variables and the HIV Knowledge Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive measures, and for comparison between the categories the Kruskal-Wallis test was used, with margin of error of 5%. RESULTS: A predominance of male workers was observed (97.4%) among 381 workers; aged 30-39 (34.1%); married (81.4%); with up to eight years of education (66.6%); family income of up to 2x the minimum wage (52.8%) and coming from the country (43.8%). The average of correct responses was 63.3%, with higher indices (70.0%) related to transmission and forms of prevention. There were higher percentages of hits among those who had studied for 12 years or more. Workers from the capital of Paraíba presented a higher number of correct responses (67.44%). CONCLUSIONS: There is a low index of knowledge of construction workers about HIV, highlighting their consequent vulnerability to acquiring this infection.

Bridging the educational gap: a comprehensive approach to combating the surge in sexually transmitted infections / Preenchendo a lacuna educacional: uma abordagem abrangente para combater o aumento de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose a significant public health challenge in contemporary society, exacerbated by evolving sexual behaviors and societal shifts. Despite advancements in medical science, the prevalence of STIs continues to rise, necessitating a multifaceted approach to combat this epidemic. This opinion article examines the prospect of addressing the surge in STIs through a comprehensive strategy that encompasses educational reforms, destigmatization efforts, enhanced resource accessibility, and technological innovations. Objective: The primary objective of this article is to underscore the urgency of implementing a comprehensive approach to combat the escalating rates of STIs. By elucidating the limitations of existing educational frameworks and societal attitudes towards STIs, this article seeks to advocate for transformative measures that bridge the educational gap and foster a more informed and empowered populace capable of preventing and managing STIs effectively. Methods: This opinion piece is based on existing literature on STIs, educational strategies, and public health interventions to formulate a comprehensive approach to addressing the STI epidemic. Drawing upon empirical evidence and expert opinions, the article identifies key areas for intervention and proposes actionable recommendations for stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, healthcare providers, and community leaders. Results: The analysis underscores the pressing need for a paradigm shift in STI education and prevention efforts. Current educational modalities often fail to resonate with modern sexual behaviors and perpetuate the stigma surrounding STIs, impeding effective prevention and treatment initiatives. By adopting a comprehensive approach that integrates accurate information, destigmatization campaigns, enhanced access to resources, and innovative technologies, significant strides can be made in curbing the spread of STIs and promoting sexual health and well-being. Conclusion: In conclusion, combating the surge in STIs demands a concerted effort to bridge the educational gap and address the root causes of the epidemic. By embracing a comprehensive approach that acknowledges the complexities of modern sexuality, destigmatizes STIs, and empowers individuals with knowledge and resources, we can pave the way toward a healthier and more sexually literate society. Policymakers, healthcare professionals, educators, and community stakeholders must collaborate to enact meaningful change and mitigate the profound impact of STIs on public health and well-being. (AU)

Introdução: As infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST) representam um desafio significativo de saúde pública na sociedade contemporânea, exacerbado pela evolução dos comportamentos sexuais e pelas mudanças sociais. Apesar dos avanços na ciência médica, a prevalência de IST continua a aumentar, havendo necessidade de uma abordagem multifacetada para combater esta epidemia. Este artigo de opinião examina a perspectiva de abordar o aumento das IST por meio de uma estratégia abrangente, que engloba reformas educativas, esforços de desestigmatização, maior acessibilidade aos recursos e inovações tecnológicas. Objetivo: O objetivo principal deste artigo é sublinhar a urgência de implementar uma abordagem abrangente para combater as taxas crescentes de IST. Ao elucidar as limitações dos quadros educativos existentes e das atitudes da sociedade em relação às IST, este artigo procura defender medidas transformadoras que colmatem a lacuna educacional e promovam uma população mais informada e capacitada, capaz de prevenir e gerir eficazmente as IST. Métodos: Este artigo de opinião baseia-se na literatura existente sobre IST, estratégias educativas e intervenções de saúde pública para formular uma abordagem abrangente para enfrentar a epidemia de IST. Com base em evidências empíricas e opiniões de especialistas, o artigo identifica áreas-chave de intervenção e propõe recomendações práticas para as partes interessadas, incluindo decisores políticos, educadores, prestadores de cuidados de saúde e líderes comunitários. Resultados: A análise sublinha a necessidade premente de uma mudança de paradigma na educação e nos esforços de prevenção das IST. As atuais modalidades educativas, muitas vezes, não conseguem repercutir nos comportamentos sexuais modernos e perpetuam o estigma em torno das IST, impedindo iniciativas eficazes de prevenção e tratamento. Ao adotar uma abordagem abrangente que integre informações precisas, campanhas de desestigmatização, maior acesso aos recursos e tecnologias inovadoras, podem ser feitos avanços significativos na contenção da propagação das IST e na promoção da saúde sexual e do bem-estar. Conclusão:Em conclusão, o combate ao aumento das IST exige um esforço concertado para colmatar o fosso educativo e abordar as causas profundas da epidemia. Ao adotarmos uma abordagem abrangente que reconheça as complexidades da sexualidade moderna, desestigmatize as IST e capacite os indivíduos com conhecimentos e recursos, podemos preparar o caminho para uma sociedade mais saudável e com maior literacia sexual. Os decisores políticos, os profissionais de saúde, os educadores e as partes interessadas da comunidade devem colaborar para implementar mudanças significativas e mitigar o impacto profundo das IST na saúde pública e no bem-estar. (AU)

Failure in syndromic management due to drug-resistant Mycoplasma genitalium in Florianópolis, South Brazil / Falha no manejo sindrômico devido a Mycoplasma genitalium resistente em Florianópolis, Sul do Brasil

Introduction: Mycoplasma genitalium is a bacterium associated with sexually transmitted infections that can cause urethritis in men and complications in women, including preterm birth. Increasing macrolide resistance in M. genitalium poses challenges to treatment efficacy. Objective: To present a case of treatment failure of urethritis caused by macrolide-resistant M. genitalium. Case report: This case report describes a 20-year-old man with persistent urethral symptoms despite azithromycin treatment, wherein M. genitalium harbored the A2058G mutation in the 23S rRNA. Subsequent treatment with moxifloxacin resolved symptoms and cleared M. genitalium. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of resistance testing to guide antimicrobial therapy and emphasizes the need for updated treatment guidelines in Brazil. (AU)

Introdução:Mycoplasma genitalium é uma bactéria associada a infecções sexualmente transmissíveis, que pode causar uretrite em homens e complicações em mulheres, incluindo nascimento prematuro. O aumento da resistência aos macrolídeos em M. genitalium coloca desafios à eficácia do tratamento. Objetivo: Apresentar um caso de falha terapêutica de uretrite causada por M. genitalium resistente aos macrolídeos. Relato de caso: Este relato de caso descreve um homem de 20 anos com sintomas uretrais persistentes, apesar do tratamento com azitromicina, em que M. genitalium possuía a mutação A2058G no rRNA 23S. O tratamento subsequente com moxifloxacino resolveu os sintomas e eliminou M. genitalium. Conclusão: O estudo destacou a importância dos testes de resistência para orientar a terapia antimicrobiana e enfatizou a necessidade de atualizar as diretrizes de tratamento no Brasil. (AU)

Access to HIV/STI testing among male and female Venezuelan migrants in Peru: evidence from a nationwide survey.

BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are major global public health issues. Migrants represent a vulnerable group that faces multiple barriers to access to healthcare services, including HIV/STI testing. This study aimed to assess the factors associated with access to HIV/STI testing in male and female Venezuelan migrants in Peru. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving secondary data analysis of the 2022 Venezuelan Population Residing in Peru Survey. The study was conducted in the eight most populated cities inhabited by Venezuelan migrants and refugees. For each city, the sampling design was probabilistic, stratified, and independent. The outcome variable was whether participants had access to HIV or other STI testing during their stay in Peru. Statistical analysis was stratified by sex owing to potential effect modification. Crude and adjusted prevalence ratios were calculated using generalized linear models Poisson family with log link function. Confidence intervals were calculated to 95%. RESULTS: A total of 3,723 male and 3,984 female migrants were included. Access to HIV/STI testing among male and female migrants was 19.85% and 25.16%, respectively. Among male migrants, being LGBTI, health insured, and married or cohabiting were associated with increased access to HIV/STI testing. Among females, those aged 18-44 years, those who were married or cohabiting and were health insured, and those residing for more than 1 year in Peru were significantly more likely to have access to HIV/STI testing. Moreover, physical/mental disability and unemployed status were associated with a lower probability of HIV/STI testing in females. CONCLUSIONS: Only two in ten Venezuelan migrants and refugees in Peru were screened for HIV/STI, with fewer males than females. Sex-specific sociodemographic, health-related, and migration-related variables were independently associated with access to HIV/STI testing.

Board game on sexually transmitted infections for imprisoned women.

INTRODUCTION: The board games is an educational technology that represents an appealing, active and playful pedagogical strategy and may be capable of motivating imprisoned women to learn about Sexually Transmitted Infections. METHODS: A methodological study to develop and evaluate a board game, following these stages: 1. Integrative literature review to identify educational technologies on Sexually Transmitted Infections used by imprisoned women; 2. Development of the board game; and 3. Content validation performed by 23 evaluators and semantic evaluation carried out with 10 imprisoned women who were enrolled in a school located within a female prison unit in the city of Recife, state of Pernambuco, Brazil. RESULTS: The board game consisted of the following: 01 board; 01 instructions manual; 05 pawns; 52 cards; and 01 dice. A global Content Validity Index of 0.966 was reached in the content validation process performed by health and education professionals. In the validation of the board game content regarding appearance, performed by designers/developers, most of the items obtained a Content Validity Coefficient below 0.85, which resulted in the need for adjustments and a new validation round with these professionals, in which Content Validity Coefficient = 0.917 was obtained. In the semantic evaluation, all the women stated that they improved their knowledge, increased their motivation to attend the class and would like to play the board game again. CONCLUSIONS: The "Previna" board game has been validated and can be considered an important pedagogical tool in the construction of knowledge in relation to the prevention, treatment and control of Sexually Transmitted Infections in the female prison context. The quality of this educational technology is directly related to its development based on an appropriate theoretical and methodological framework, in addition to satisfactory feedback from the target audience. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not applicable.

Epidemiology of Syphilis in Pregnancy and Congenital Syphilis in Brazil and the Risk or Associated Factors: Protocol for a Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Syphilis in pregnancy and congenital syphilis are growing public health issues worldwide. Several factors can influence their occurrence in the population. Therefore, understanding the epidemiology of this condition and the factors that influence its occurrence is fundamental for decision-making by clinicians and health managers. However, so far, no systematic review has summarized and analyzed data on the incidence, prevalence, and predictors of these diseases in Brazilian cities, considering different sociocultural, demographic, economic, sanitary, and spatial-temporal characteristics presented across locations. OBJECTIVE: We propose a systematic review protocol to gather and analyze data on the incidence, prevalence, and risk or associated factors of syphilis in pregnancy and congenital syphilis in Brazil, taking into account different local or regional contexts. METHODS: Searches will be conducted in CINAHL, MEDLINE, LILACS, Embase, and Web of Science databases. We will include observational studies (ie, cross-sectional, longitudinal, or case-control studies), analyzing the incidence, prevalence, and risk or associated factors of syphilis in pregnancy and congenital syphilis in Brazil from primary data. The diagnosed syphilis will be assessed based on direct pathogen detection tests or through immunological, treponemal or nontreponemal tests, following Brazilian protocols for diagnosing syphilis. The studies are currently undergoing screening in the databases, and after this step, 2 reviewers will perform all identified documents. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations) system will be used to assess methodological quality and quality of evidence of studies, respectively. The Kappa coefficient will assess the agreement between researchers in each study stage. Cochran Q test will assess the heterogeneity among studies. Then, a random-effects meta-analysis will be performed. RESULTS: Results will be discussed based on subgroup analysis, which is as follows: (1) type of syphilis (in pregnancy or congenital), (2) type of study (case-control and cross-sectional studies for analysis of associated factors and longitudinal studies for risk factors), and (3) contextual factors (ie, region of country, socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, and year of study). This systematic review is expected to be completed by December 2023, and our results will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals and scientific events. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review aims to assist health care managers and professionals in their decision-making to control these diseases in Brazil, considering location heterogeneity. Furthermore, countries with health systems and demographic and socioeconomic contexts similar to those of Brazil may benefit from this information. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/50702.

Nivel de conocimiento sobre VPH en estudiantes de la Universidad del Pacífico

Introducción. El virus del papiloma humano (VPH) es una infección viral más habitual del aparato reproductor y causa diversos trastornos, tanto en hombres como en mujeres, y se considera como el principal agente para el desarrollo del cáncer cervicouterino. Objetivo. Determinar el nivel de conocimiento sobre el VPH de las alumnas del segundo año de las diferentes carreras de la Universidad del Pacífico Sede Asunción en el año 2023. Materiales y Métodos. Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo de corte transversal en alumnas del segundo año de las diferentes carreras de la Universidad del Pacifico en el 2023, mediante una encuesta de conocimiento, influencia y métodos para evitar el contagio del VPH. Se aplicó la estadística descriptiva utilizando el programa EpiDat 4.2. Resultados. Participaron 95 alumnas, el 49,92% conoce que el VPH es una infección viral, el 87,37% que su síntoma más común son las verrugas genitales, el 91,58% sabe que la infección por VPH afecta a ambos sexos, el 90,53% que se puede transmitir por vía sexual, 71,58% sabe que puede producir cáncer de cuello uterino y el 86,32% conoce que la vacunación es la principal medida de prevención. El 48% de las estudiantes tuvieron un buen nivel de conocimiento global sobre el VPH. Conclusión. El nivel insuficiente de conocimiento sobre VHP refleja la necesidad de realizar fortalecer el programa educativo universitario y campañas educativas con respecto al VPH y el cáncer de cuello uterino.

Introduction. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract, causes various disorders in both men and women, and it is considered to be the main agent for the development of cervical cancer. Objective. To determine the level of knowledge about HPV among students in the second year of the different careers of the Universidad del Pacífico, Asunción, 2023. Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional, observational, descriptive study was carried out with 2nd year students of the different careers of the Universidad del Pacifico in 2023, by means of a survey of knowledge about HPV, influence, and methods to prevent infection. Descriptive statistics using EpiDat 4.2 software were applied. Results. Of the 95 female students surveyed, 49.92% knew that HPV was a viral infection, 87.37% knew that the most common symptom was genital warts, 91.58% knew that HPV disease affects both sexes, 90.53% knew that it can be transmitted sexually, 71.58% knew that it could cause cervical cancer, and 86.32% knew that vaccination was the main prevention measure, 48% of the students have a good global knowledge about HPV. Conclusion. The insufficient level of knowledge about HPV reflects the need to strengthen the university educational program and educational campaigns regarding HPV and cervical cancer.

Efetividade de recursos audiovisuais educativos sobre infecções sexualmente transmissíveis: protocolo de revisão sistemática / Effectiveness of educational audiovisual aid on sexually transmitted infections: a systematic review protocol

OBJETIVO: analisar o efeito das intervenções fornecidas por meio de recursos audiovisuais em comparação com a orientação tradicional para melhorar o conhecimento sobre infecções sexualmente transmissíveis entre jovens, adultos e idosos. MÉTODO: trata-se de uma revisão sistemática de efetividade, serão incluídas pessoas jovens, adultos e idosos, cuja intervenção foi apoiada em recursos audiovisuais. A estratégia de busca inicial foi construída na MEDLINE e será adaptada para as bases Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS via BVS), Cochrane e Embase. Não haverá delimitação de tempo ou idioma. A seleção e triagem acontecerá por dois revisores independentes. Para a análise crítica dos estudos elegíveis será utilizado instrumentos padronizados. Os estudos, independente da qualidade metodológica, passarão pelo processo de síntese e extração de dados. Se possível, os estudos serão agrupados em uma meta-análise estatística. Número de registro na PROSPERO: CRD42022374619.

OBJECTIVE: to analyze the effect of interventions provided by audiovisual aid compared to traditional guidance to increase knowledge on sexually transmitted infections among young, adult, and older persons. METHOD: this is an effectiveness systematic review. Young, adult, and older persons are to be included. The intervention was supported by audiovisual aid. The initial search strategy was built on MEDLINE and will be adapted to the following databases: Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS via BVS), Cochrane, and Embase. There will not be a time or language delimitation. Two independent reviewers will carry out the selection and screening. Standardized instruments will be used to carry out the critical analysis of the eligible studies. These studies will go through a synthesis and data extraction process regardless of methodological quality. If possible, these studies will be grouped into a statistical meta-analysis. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022374619.

The Brazilian army and the low prevalence of sexually transmitted infections in women of the military garrison of Campinas between 2017 to 2020: a prospective, cross-sectional epidemiological study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Given the characteristics of military missions, intense interpersonal contact, and wide variation in casual relationships, the military has long been recognized as a high-risk population for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of STIs and socioepidemiological profile of women in the military garrison of Campinas. DESIGN AND SETTING: This prospective, cross-sectional epidemiological study, assisted by the Health Fund in the military garrison of Campinas, assessed the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B and C, syphilis, human papillomavirus (HPV), chlamydia, and gonococcus in military women or companions of soldiers with active or previously active sexual life. METHODS: This study included 647 women based on the non-inclusion criteria. They underwent clinical and laboratory tests for diagnosis of STIs. For statistical analysis, patients were divided into groups according to the presence or absence of STIs and into age groups. RESULTS: Most women were military dependents, and the majority were asymptomatic. The prevalence of STIs, in ascending order, was 0.3% for hepatitis B and C, 0.62% for syphilis, 0.62% for gonorrhea, 1.08% for chlamydia, and 2.63% for HPV. There were no cases of HIV infection. CONCLUSIONS: The Brazilian Army has the most women-like dependents in the military, belonging to the hierarchical circle of the squares. Early onset of sexual activity favored STIs approximately twice, and younger women had approximately seven times more chlamydia infections. In the general population studied, the prevalence of STIs was lower than expected than in the armed forces of other nations.

Enfrentamento de epidemias de ISTs em população jovem: caracterização da linguagem dos materiais educativos / Responding to STI epidemics among young people: a characterization of the language employed in educational materials

Resumo O objetivo do artigo é caracterizar a linguagem utilizada nos materiais educativos e comunicacionais vinculados à temática das IST, do HIV/Aids e hepatites virais produzidos e veiculados pelo Ministério da Saúde no período de 2010 a 2019, identificando elementos de promoção à saúde e de prevenção de doenças. Metodologia descritiva exploratória para a caracterização da linguagem utilizada nos materiais educativos e comunicacionais sobre as IST, do HIV/Aids e hepatites virais. Para a seleção dos materiais educativos, adotou-se a estratégia de busca sistemática realizada no site do Ministério da Saúde do Brasil por um período de dez anos: de 2010 a 2019. Os materiais foram observados por meio dos enfoques educativos. O enfoque preventivo foi identificado em 100% dos materiais analisados (201). O enfoque educativo foi encontrado em 24,87% (50) dos materiais, e o enfoque de desenvolvimento pessoal foi encontrado em 7,96% (16). Os enfoques radical e da educação popular em saúde não foram observados. A atenção quase exclusiva ao enfoque preventivo revela que cuidados individuais isoladamente não são suficientes para combater e sanar o problema das IST, do HIV/Aids e das hepatites virais no Brasil.

Abstract This article aims to characterize the language employed in educational and communications materials about STIs, HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis produced by the Ministry of Health between 2010 and 2019, identifying elements related to health promotion and disease prevention. We conducted an exploratory descriptive study. The materials were selected by performing a systematic search of the Ministry of Health website focusing on the period 2010-2019. The materials were analyzed to determine the educational approaches adopted. The preventive, educational and personal development approaches were identified in 100% (201), 24.87% (50) and 7.96% (16) of the materials, respectively. The radical and popular education for health approaches were not observed. The almost exclusive focus on the preventive approach reveals that promoting changes in individual habits and behavior alone is not sufficient to combat and solve the problem of STIs, HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis in Brazil.

Temporal analysis and spatial distribution of acquired syphilis in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil, 2010-2021: an ecological study / Análisis temporal y distribución espacial de la sífilis adquirida en el estado de Mato Grosso, 2010-2021: estudio ecológico / Análise temporal e distribuição espacial da sífilis adquirida no estado de Mato Grosso, 2010-2021: estudo ecológico

Abstract Objective: To analyze the temporal trend and the spatial distribution of acquired syphilis in Mato Grosso, Brazil, between 2010 and 2021. Methods: This was an ecological study using notifications of acquired syphilis held on the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System. Detection rates were calculated by health macro-region and three-year periods (2010-2012, 2013-2015, 2016-2018, 2019-2021). The jointpoint method was used to calculate annual percentage change (APC). Thematic maps of Bayesian rates were built and distribution was analyzed using Local Moran. Results: The detection rate increased from 16.2 per 100,000 inhabitants in the first three-year period (2010-2012) to 70.0 in the last three-year period (2019-2021). The Central-North macro-region had the highest rate in the last three years (94.3/100,000 inhab.), while the highest upward trend occurred in the Central-Northwest macro-region, from 2013 to 2018 (APC = 50.2; 95%CI 26.3;78.6). There was an increase in Bayesian rates in most municipalities. Conclusion: There was a trend towards an increase in acquired syphilis, especially in the last two three-year periods.

Resumen Objetivo: Analizar la tendencia temporal y la distribución espacial de la sífilis adquirida en Mato Grosso, de 2010 a 2021. Métodos: Estudio ecológico utilizando informes de sífilis adquirida del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Declaración Obligatoria - Sinan. Las tasas de detección se calcularon por macrorregión de salud y trienios (2010-2012, 2013-2015, 2016-2018, 2019-2021). Se utilizó el método jointpoint para calcular el cambio porcentual anual (CPA). Se construyeron mapas temáticos de tasas bayesianas y se analizó la distribución por Moran Local. Resultados: La tasa de detección aumentó de 16,2 por 100.000 en el primer trienio (2010-2012) a 70,0 en el último trienio (2019-2021). La macrorregión Centro-Norte presentó la tasa más alta en los últimos tres años (94,3/100.000 hab.), mientras que la mayor tendencia al alza se presentó en la macrorregión Centro-Noroeste, de 2013 a 2018 (CPA = 50,2; IC95% 26,3; 78,6). Hubo un aumento en las tasas bayesianas en la mayoría de los municipios. Conclusión: Hubo una tendencia al aumento de la sífilis adquirida, especialmente en los dos últimos trienios.

Resumo Objetivo: Analisar a tendência temporal e a distribuição espacial da sífilis adquirida em Mato Grosso, de 2010 a 2021. Métodos: Estudo ecológico utilizando notificações de sífilis adquirida do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação. As taxas de detecção foram calculadas por macrorregiões de saúde e triênios (2010-2012, 2013-2015, 2016-2018, 2019-2021). O método jointpoint foi utilizado no cálculo da variação percentual anual (VPA). Foram construídos mapas temáticos das taxas bayesianas e a distribuição analisada por Moran local. Resultados: A taxa de detecção passou de 16,2/100 mil habitantes, no primeiro triênio (2010-2012), para 70, no último triênio (2019-2021). A macrorregião Centro-Norte apresentou a maior taxa no último triênio (94,3/100 mil hab.), enquanto a maior tendência de aumento ocorreu na macrorregião Centro-Noroeste, de 2013 a 2018 (VPA = 50,2; IC95% 26,3;78,6). As taxas bayesianas aumentaram na maioria dos municípios. Conclusão: Houve tendência de aumento da sífilis adquirida, principalmente nos dois últimos triênios.