Sexually transmitted diseases in college men: a preliminary clinical investigation

Abstract

Continuing efforts to educate college students about the dangers of unprotected sexual intercourse have resulted in little evidence of positive change in sexual behavior. This clinical study examined the sexual behavior, perceived risk of human immunodeficiency virus, and pathology of 66 university men attending a health center's men's clinic for treatment of sexually transmitted disease (STD). The study demonstrated the existence of a high-risk group of men who, despite sexually transmitted disease pathology, high numbers of sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and delays in seeking treatment, perceive their risk of contracting HIV/AIDS as being extremely low. This preliminary investigation suggests the need for specific education interventions and future in-depth studies of this population.

PIP: A reduction in the prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) suggests that sexually active individuals are taking more precautions to prevent infection during sexual intercourse. Accordingly, male college students presenting for their first time at a men's STD clinic at a large East Coast public university were examined and surveyed. Their individual pathologies, behavioral characteristics, and perceived risk of HIV infection were identified. 13 graduate students, 23 seniors, 25 juniors, 4 sophomores, and 1 freshman were seen during the fourth weeks of Spring and Fall semesters in 1992. 26 men (39.4%) reported having 7 or more lifetime sex partners, yet only 9 (13.6%) reported always using condoms; 19 (28.8%) reported never using condoms. 33 were currently in relationships lasting more than 1 year, 16 were in recent relationships of up to 6 months, 13 were in casual relationships, 2 had multiple partners, and 2 reported having no sex partners. 31 reported previously visiting other STD clinics, among who 23 had been diagnosed with an STD. Only 20 of the young men visited the clinic within 7 days of developing symptoms, even though symptoms included genital lesions (39.4%) and rashes (28.8%). 23 (34%) were diagnosed with human papilloma virus, 8 with nongonococcal urethritis, 7 with general dermatological problems, 5 with testicular problems, 4 with yeast infection, and 4 with molloscum contagiosum. 9 men visited the clinic to have questions answered and 6 had no discernible pathology. None of the subjects perceived themselves as being at extremely high risk of contracting HIV, 4 thought themselves at high risk, 12 were neutral about their risk, 37 felt at low risk, and 13 felt at extremely low risk. Educational interventions and in-depth studies of the population are needed.