Sexually transmitted infections: a narrative review with a note on prevalence in Nigeria

Abstract

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a group of infections in which the principal way of transmission is sexual contact. This article is a narrative review on STIs. The aim is to synthesize information on various aspects of STIs with a note on current prevalence in Nigeria, in order to provide an update for public enlightenment and so stimulate appropriate actions both individually and collectively. Information from research articles written in English published in international peer-reviewed journals that investigated STIs as well as official publications and books related to the topic were included. Google search engine was used. It was found that STIs may be classified by causative organism or by type of lesion. Most risk factors for STIs emanate from lifestyle and personal behaviour. More than 1 million STIs are acquired everyday worldwide. Each year there are an estimated 374 million new infections with 1 of 4 curable STIs. A recent survey in Southern Nigeria found that the prevalence of STIs among a sexually active population is 27.7%. Signs and symptoms are many but vary depending on the particular STI. Effective treatment is available for several STIs. Methods of prevention and control are also available. The burden of STIs globally is enormous. The prevalence in Nigeria remains high. A gap in knowledge and practice of prevention exits. Therefore, there is need for more health education, including community sensitization, to improve the knowledge and practice of prevention and to reduce the prevalence of STIs in Nigeria and globally.