A Uusküla1, K Kangur, L A McNutt. 1. Department of Public Health, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, Tartu 50409, Estonia. anneli.uuskula@ut.ee
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This qualitative study assesses knowledge about sexually transmitted infections (STI), identifies perceived barriers to STI testing, and recommends strategies to optimise participation in a home based STI testing programme. METHODS: Five focus groups composed of 29 total participants were recruited using convenience sampling methods based on age (18-40 years), gender (male and female), and residency (Tartu region, Estonia). RESULTS: The focus groups revealed significant knowledge deficits and a widespread attitude of denial. However, participants acknowledged that STIs are a serious problem and recommended strategies for increasing participation in an STI testing and treatment programme. Successful STI prevention programmes must address a number of challenges, including disease stigmatisation and privacy protection. CONCLUSION: The fear of enforced disease control methods coupled with the current stigmatisation of STIs creates a serious challenge for Estonian STI prevention and treatment efforts. This qualitative study provides a good contextual reference for STI control programmes in eastern Europe.
OBJECTIVE: This qualitative study assesses knowledge about sexually transmitted infections (STI), identifies perceived barriers to STI testing, and recommends strategies to optimise participation in a home based STI testing programme. METHODS: Five focus groups composed of 29 total participants were recruited using convenience sampling methods based on age (18-40 years), gender (male and female), and residency (Tartu region, Estonia). RESULTS: The focus groups revealed significant knowledge deficits and a widespread attitude of denial. However, participants acknowledged that STIs are a serious problem and recommended strategies for increasing participation in an STI testing and treatment programme. Successful STI prevention programmes must address a number of challenges, including disease stigmatisation and privacy protection. CONCLUSION: The fear of enforced disease control methods coupled with the current stigmatisation of STIs creates a serious challenge for Estonian STI prevention and treatment efforts. This qualitative study provides a good contextual reference for STI control programmes in eastern Europe.
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