Clinico-epidemiological profile and high-risk sexual behavior among clients attending sexually transmitted infection clinic at a tertiary care hospital in North India

CONTEXT: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are one of the most catastrophic events of health causing huge psychosocial and economic morbidity consequences. AIM: The study aims to study the clinico-epidemiological profile and high-risk sexual behavior among clients attending STI clinic at tertiary care hospital in North India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was conducted at STI clinic, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Data from 1283 clients attending STI clinic between August 2015 and July 2016 were compiled using master client register and STI/reproductive tract infection patient-wise register, and a final completed data set of these patients was analyzed according to the aims and objectives. RESULTS: On analyzing the various factors associated with high-risk sexual behavior among clients attending STI clinic marital status, sexual preference and employment status were found to be significantly associated with high-risk sexual behavior (P < 0.05). On multivariate analysis, unmarried/divorced/widow/separated marital status (odds ratio [OR]: 14.72; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.89–114.17; P = 0.00) and unemployed status (OR: 6.10; 95% CI: 2.00–18.60; P = 0.02) were found to be independent predictors of high-risk sexual behavior (unprotected sex). CONCLUSIONS: Based on findings of study, it is highly recommended to provide periodic screening to these STI patients for assessment of their sexual behavior along with specific counseling session.