Sexually transmitted diseases amongst a sample of people seeking HIV testing.

Objective: To examine the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases according to gender, age, sexual orientation, sexual behaviour and drug use.

Methods: Data were collected from 814 clients attending anonymously for HIV testing at the Burnett Centre in Auckland. During pretest counselling clients were asked questions designed to assess their risk of HIV infection including a detailed history of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Results: Amongst attenders 44% reported at least one lifetime STD including 16% reporting more than one. Multiple STDs were not associated with gender or sexual orientation but they were associated with the practice of anal sex and with a history of multiple sex partners. Alcohol and drug use were also related to multiple STDs. For men the most common STD was NSU with 20% of them reporting it whereas for women genital warts was the most common reported by 18%. Amongst those under 20 years 9% reported genital warts, 7% NSU and 6% chlamydia.

Conclusions: The findings confirm that it is sexual practices which put people at risk of infection from STDs rather than their sexual orientation. They also draw attention to the role that drugs and alcohol play in the practice of unsafe sex and the consequent transmission of STDs. Finally they suggest that screening for STDs as well as HIV in AIDS clinics should be encouraged.