SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES (STDs) AND ACQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME (AIDS) IN NIGERIA

The sexually Transmitted Diseases constitute major public health problems in Nigeria. There is early sexual maturity and considerable sexual activity between 9 and 15 years of age. Although there is a high awareness of the condom, people are unwilling to use them despite evidence of multiple sexual exposures. The STDs, including HIV infections, are on the increase. Tuberculosis is also on the increase because of a HIV/AIDS epidemic. Both categorical and integrated approach to the management of STDs and AIDS are being recommended. There is a need to step up basic research into the biology of HIV and subsidize the treatment of AIDS. Efforts at vaccine development should be initiated to stem the worsening HIV epidemic. (Af. J. of Clinical and Experimental Microbiology: 2002 3(2): 78-81)