A Retrospective Study of Sexually Transmitted Infections among Rural Population of Western Maharashtra

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a major public health problem worldwide, affecting the quality of life and causing serious morbidity and mortality. Greater understanding of local STI/ STD burdens can assist in the development of more effective STI/ STD and HIV prevention strategies. Aim: To estimate the prevalence of STIs at tertiary care hospital and to study the clinical patterns. Material and Methods: A retrospective review of the data of patients seeking services at STD speciality clinic of dermatology OPD of tertiary care hospital catering to rural population of Western Maharashtra. It is 9 years observational study from June 2012 to May 2021. All patients diagnosed clinically as STI/ STD were included in the study. Results: The prevalence of STI/ STD at our tertiary care hospital was 0.8/10,000. Candidial balanitis being most common accounting for 126 cases (38.18%), followed by Molluscum contagiosum. Conclusion: The high prevalence of fungal and viral infection was observed.