Sex Transm Dis. 2022 May 24. doi: 10.1097/OLQ.0000000000001650. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to examine variations in the incidence rates of STIs (i.e., chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis) across the urban-rural and area-deprivation continua from January of 2013 through December of 2018 in Yakima County, Washington. The rates of STIs has been increasing in the United States in the past decade. Historically, Yakima County has higher rates of STIs than state and national rates. Additionally, Yakima County contains rural areas and areas with greater deprivation which face gaps in access to care.
METHODS: The Washington State Department of Health Database Surveillance System was utilized to conduct the study. The dataset included diagnosed cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis with positive laboratory test results for the duration of the study period. Incidence rates of STIs were calculated and statistically analyzed across the urban-rural and area-deprivation continua using Rural-Urban Commuting Area codes and the Area Deprivation Index.
RESULTS: The incidence rates of STIs increased from January of 2013 through December of 2018. STI rates did not differ in micropolitan, small town, and rural block groups compared to the metropolitan block groups. Most-deprived block groups had significantly higher STI rates compared to less-deprived block groups.
CONCLUSIONS: There is a need for increased STI intervention in higher deprivation areas including STI education. Public health officials and health care providers should be aware of these risk factors and tailor interventions to the neighborhood they serve.
PMID:35608077 | DOI:10.1097/OLQ.0000000000001650
