<![CDATA[Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a major global health concern, with significant impacts in Indonesia and Papua. This study aimed to identify protective and risk factors associated with STIs in Biak Numfor. A quantitative case–control design was conducted involving 80 adults attending Biak Kota Health Center, Papua (40 cases and 40 controls). Cases were defined based on physician-confirmed STI diagnoses in medical records, while controls were adults visiting the same facility for non-STI conditions and confirmed free of STIs. Data were collected using validated questionnaires on education, knowledge, media exposure, peer support, and alcohol consumption. Logistic regression was applied to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals. Higher education (AOR = 0.006; 95% CI: 0.000–0.320; p = 0.015), media exposure (AOR = 0.001; 95% CI: 0.000–0.120; p = 0.015), and peer support (AOR = 0.008; 95% CI: 0.000–0.450; p = 0.025) were associated with lower odds of STIs. Alcohol consumption before sexual intercourse was associated with higher odds (AOR = 44.6; 95% CI: 1.6–1230; p = 0.026). Knowledge showed a non-significant association (p = 0.057). In conclusion, Education, media exposure, and peer support were associated with lower odds of STIs, while alcohol consumption was associated with higher odds. Integrated interventions are recommended to reduce STI prevalence in Papua.]]>
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