Survey on awareness of sexually transmitted diseases among adolescents

Information for nursing staff, 2024, 56(2), 23-29.

V. Alexieva

Department „Health Care“, Sliven Branch, Medical University “Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov” ‒ Varna

Abstract. Introduction. According to the World Health Organization, about 250 million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases are detected every year. The names „sexually transmitted diseases“ or „sexually transmitted infections“ are used as interchangeable terms and as a synonym for „venereal diseases“, which is currently considered obsolete. According to the causative agents, sexually transmitted diseases can be classified as diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, etc. There is a tendency for an increase in „new“ sexually transmitted diseases – chlamydia infections. If left untreated, most sexually transmitted diseases can cause infertility and other complications. The aim of this study was to explore and analyze the awareness of adolescents about the age of sexual debut, types of sexually transmitted diseases, ways of infection and ways of prevention. Materials and methods. A survey was conducted among 244 students from middle schools on the territory of the Sliven District. The survey was conducted during the class teacher‘s lesson. Results. Adolescents aged 16-18 indicate that the age at which sexual life should be started is 17-18 (50.80%). In terms of their knowledge of sexually transmitted infections, the highest awareness of AIDS (93.80%) and syphilis (71.70%) is observed, while chlamydia (34.50%) and hepatitis B (20.70%) were less known for the adolescents. Conclusion. Prevention of the spread of sexually transmitted diseases is related to the promotion of health education by explaining their nature, ways of preventing and treating them.

Key words: sexually transmitted diseases, awareness, adolescents

Address for correspondence: Violeta Alexieva, Senior Assist. e-mail: aleksieva_1968@abv.bg