Sexual behaviour and risk factors for the acquisition of human papillomavirus infections in young people in Italy: suggestions for future vaccination policies
<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection. The main risk factors correlated with HPV infection are: early sexual debut, the number of partners, frequency and type of sexual contact and partner'...
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Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |
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Format: | Book |
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BMC,
2012-08-01T00:00:00Z.
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Summary: | <p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection. The main risk factors correlated with HPV infection are: early sexual debut, the number of partners, frequency and type of sexual contact and partner's sexual histories.</p> <p>We surveyed sexual habits among young people in order to provide information that might orient decision-makers in adopting HPV multi-cohort vaccination policies.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>We administered a questionnaire to students (14-24 years old) in five Italian cities.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>7298 questionnaires were analyzed (4962 females and 2336 males); 55.3% of females (95% CI 53.9-56.7) and 52.5% of males (95% CI 50.5-54.5) reported regular sexual activity. The mean age at sexual debut was 15.7 ± 1.6 and 15.6 ± 1.6 for females and males, respectively, and the median age was 16 for both sexes.</p> <p>With regard to contraceptive use during the last year, 63.6% of males and 62.8% of females responded affirmatively; 42.6% of males and 42.8% of females used condoms.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>The results reveal precocious sexual activity among respondents, with the mean age at first intercourse declining as age decreases. Condom use proved to be scant. Considering lifestyle-related risk factors, males appear to have a higher probability of acquiring HPV infection than females.</p> <p>These data support the importance of promoting multi-cohort HPV vaccination strategies for females up to 25 years of age. It is essential to improve vaccination coverage through different broad-spectrum strategies, including campaigns to increase awareness of sexually transmitted diseases and their prevention.</p> |
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Item Description: | 10.1186/1471-2458-12-623 1471-2458 |