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Helena F Turner, MS, Department of Population and International Health, Harvard School of Public Health, 665 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, 781-368-9066, hturner@hsph.harvard.edu, Laura A McCloskey, PhD, Department of Society, Human Development, and Health, Harvard University, School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Ave, Kresge Building, 6th floor, Boston, MA 02115, and Ulla M. Larsen, PhD, Department of Population and International Health, Harvard University, School of Public Health, 667 Huntington Avenue, Building 1, Room 1109, Boston, MA 02115.
Objectives. To determine the prevalence of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) infection and to identify associated risk factors. Methods. Data were collected in 2002-2003 from 2,019 women in Moshi, an urban area of northern Tanzania. All women aged 20-44 years old in selected households were invited to participate. The survey consisted of a face-to-face questionnaire, followed by the collection of blood and urine for sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing of those who consented. The interview included questions about socio-demographic characteristics, sexual practices, marriage, pregnancies, symptoms of STIs, infertility and domestic violence. Data were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. Results. Of the women who took part in the survey, 1418 agreed to be tested for HSV-2. The prevalence of HSV-2 infection was 43.8% (95% 40.4-47.1). The following risk factors were identified: being in a polygamous relationship; low parity; early sexual debut; positive HIV status; circumcision; lack of financial support from partner; and believing that men have the right to leave if the couple cannot have children. Discussion. HSV-2 infection is a significant problem in Moshi, Tanzania. Although antiretrovirals for treatment of HSV-2 are available, they are largely unaffordable for this population. As there is also no cure for HSV-2, it is important to identify risk factors in order to prevent infections. This is even more important since HSV-2 infection can increase susceptibility to HIV infection. Identifying risk factors for HSV-2 may aid in identifying vulnerable populations and thus help target STI prevention programs.
Learning Objectives: After viewing the poster, the participant will
Keywords: Vulnerable Populations, International Reproductive Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.