Prevalance and Associated Risk Factors of Sexual Transmited Infections among Sexually Active Youths Aged 15 - 45 Years Attending the EHFA Foundation Teaching Medical Centre, Foumbot

Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are among the most common acute conditions in the world. There are over 30 infections that can be transmitted sexually. Sexually transmitted infections (STI) remain a pressing public health challenge globally, with young people aged 15 - 24 disproportionately affected. In Cameroon, the prevalence of STI among sexually active youths aged 15 - 45 years is alarmingly high, contributing to increased morbidity, reduced academic performance, and long-term reproductive health complications. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of sexually transmitted infections among sexually active youths aged 15 - 45 years attending the EHFA Foundation Teaching Medical centre, Foumbot. A community based cross sectional study was used in collecting data from consented patients, who were sampled through convenience sampling. Data collection was done using a well-structured questionnaire and ethical consideration was well observed. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 21 and statistical significance was considered if p value was less than or equal to 0.05. The study involved 117 participants, mostly females (57.3%) with a mean age of 27.6 ± 6.2 years; the majority were married (57.3%) and had attained secondary education (70.9%). The prevalence of STI was 41%, with syphilis being the most common (17.1%), followed by chlamydia (12%). There was a significant association between STI status and sex (p = 0.03) and marital status (p = 0.01), with females and married individuals being more affected. Most participants had very good knowledge of STI (98.3%), and the most recognized transmission route was unprotected sex, with significant differences by sex (p = 0.05) and occupation (p = 0.05). Although only 7.7% always used condoms, having multiple sexual partners was not significantly associated with STI prevalence (p = 0.15). A prior history of STI diagnosis showed a strong association with current STI positivity (p = 0.02), suggesting a risk of recurrence among previously infected individuals. It can therefore be recommended that targeted interventions focus on consistent condom use and routine STI screening, especially for individuals with prior infections.