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All Journal Diversity: Disease Preventive of Research Integrity
Kleinhans, Atholl
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Environmental Science Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology Public Health

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Sexually Transmitted Infections among Adolescents in Greater Letaba, South Africa: Prevalence and Gender-Specific Risk Factors Leinett Thobakgale, Maite; Mpata Mokgatle, Mathildah; Kleinhans, Atholl; Hoque, Muhammad
Diversity: Disease Preventive of Research Integrity Volume 6, Issue 1, August 2025
Publisher : Program Studi Kesehatan Masyarakat UIN Alauddin Makassar

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24252/diversity.v6i1.56699

Abstract

Adolescents remain highly vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to behavioral, biological, and socio-cultural determinants, yet there is limited evidence from rural sub-Saharan Africa addressing the prevalence and gender-specific patterns of risk. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of STIs and associated risk factors among adolescents in the Greater Letaba sub-district of Limpopo Province, South Africa. A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 450 participants aged 18–24 years. Data on socio-demographics, sexual practices, STI-related symptoms, and health-seeking behaviors were collected and analyzed. The results showed that 44% of respondents reported STI-related symptoms within the past year, with genital discharge (44%) and dysuria (41%) being the most common. Male participants exhibited significantly higher engagement in risky sexual behaviors, including transactional sex, multiple or non-regular partners, and alcohol use during last intercourse (p<0.001). Males also demonstrated higher rates of condom use, negotiation confidence, and HIV testing uptake compared to females, who expressed greater willingness to test with a partner. The findings underscore the dual challenge of high-risk sexual practices and gendered disparities in STI prevention, suggesting the importance of targeted, gender-sensitive interventions. Integrating Islamic values of modesty, mutual responsibility, and protection of health can strengthen preventive strategies, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals to improve adolescent and family health outcomes.
Co-Authors Hoque, Muhammad Leinett Thobakgale, Maite Mpata Mokgatle, Mathildah