Abstract
Sexually
transmitted infections (STIs) constitute a significant
public health problem affecting hundreds of millions of people globally and
causing far-reaching health and socio-economic consequences. Hospital-based
studies show high levels of prevalence of various types of STIs including AIDS,
gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, genital herpes and
trichomoniasis in Nigeria. Consequences of STIs
include female and male infertility, spontaneous abortions, ectopic pregnancies,
stillbirths, chronic lower abdominal pain, cervical cancer, and death. There
are many problems associated with the diagnosis of STIs because many are
asymptomatic and may require sophisticated equipment for diagnosis. The control
of STIs is an essential element of reproductive health. There are indications
that in Nigeria many people self-medicate or patronize traditional healers.
Because the presence of STIs can increase the likelihood of HIV transmission,
proper education, and control of STIs are essential strategies for preventing the spread of HIV. This study
elicited information on the awareness and knowledge of respondents on sexually
transmitted infections in North-Eastern Nigeria. The data is from National HIV
& AIDS, and Reproductive Health
Survey (NARHS plus II, 2012) conducted by Federal Ministry of health, Abuja
Nigeria’ Statistical methods and techniques used
in analyzing the data and presented in tables and charts for easy
comprehension.
Keywords:
STIs, Awareness, HIV, North-Eastern Nigeria.