Multidisciplinary program of sexually transmitted infection prevention: Development, implementation, evaluation of effectiveness

Abstract

Background. Vulnerable groups of the population characterized by a high level of behavioral risk are played a negative role in the epidemic of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The subpopulation of patients attending the dermatovenerologic dispensaries includes representatives of the core group of the epidemic and their sexual partners who serve as the conductor of STIs to the general population («bridge» group). Both groups should be the target for prevention interventions aimed to correct risky behavior. The objective of the study was to develop, implement and evaluate the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary prevention program aimed at correcting the behaviors resulting in infection in patients of the venereology department of the district dermatovenerologic dispensary in St. Petersburg. Design. The intervention was based on the technology of individual counselling and comprised three essential components: awareness raising, motivating to change risky behavior and training to form the protective skills. Results. Among factors determining STI risk or, alternatively, healthy behaviors and therefore significant for the development and implementation of prevention interventions were: gender, risky alcohol consumption, drug use, psycho-emotional state (severity of anxiety and depression), sexual partner violence and behavioral norms accepted in the social group. Participation in the prevention program based on the Information-Motivation- Behavior Skills model has allowed reducing significantly the risk of STIs acquisition associated with alcohol abuse and sexual practices. Conclusions. The prevention program based on the Information-Motivation-Behavior Skills model can be recommended for usage in the STI clinics. For the successful implementation of this program, the multidisciplinary teams of specialists should be established at such clinics.