Sexually transmitted infections in soldiers – a cross-sectional assessment in German paratroopers and navy soldiers and a literature review

Abstract

Introduction: The study was performed to estimate the prevalence and determinants of occurrence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in paratroopers and navy soldiers by anonymously analyzing medical records from the medical departments of two large German barracks in order to assess the need for medical STI prevention. Methods: Medical records from 80 paratroopers and 80 navy soldiers were screened for records of STI. Results were anonymously collected next to information on risk factors, as well as diagnostic and therapeutic management, and comparatively assessed. Results: Proportions of suspected STIs were 17.5% and 20%, and proportions of diagnosed STIs were 13.9% and 11.3% for paratroopers and navy soldiers, respectively. Chlamydia trachomatis, human papillomavirus, and genital scabies were observed in paratroopers and navy soldiers, while Gardnerella vaginalis, herpes simplex virus, Molluscum contagiosum virus, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis were additionally identified in navy soldiers. Conclusions: Although clinical hints for STIs were frequently observed, clinical management was usually restricted to syndrome-based antibiotic treatment without detailed diagnostic workup, leaving room for procedural improvement. Ongoing need for medical STI prevention in the military could be confirmed.

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“…14 The available opinions also suggest the fact that staying in the military will increase the risk of being infected by HIV and other STIs. 15 Therefore, the pandemic may be established to pose a security threat, endangering peace and stability of countries of this region. Without peace and stability; development, democracy, and human rights can never be predicted.…”

Sexually transmitted infections in the military environment

“…And finally, non-specific clinical picture or co-infection with several different STIs may impede the diagnosis and treatment. In view of these facts, STI screening seems to be the most effective method of controlling the spread of STIs [43].…”

Impact of war-associated factors on spread of sexually transmitted infections: a systemic review

“…Modern approaches to the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases and methods of armed confrontation have somewhat changed the structure of STI infection. The historically known syphilis and gonorrhea have been supplemented by a large number of other viral and bacterial agents, such as HIV, hepatitis B, chlamydia, human papillomavirus, and others (7). However, the tendency to increase the level of infection with sexually transmitted pathogens during conflicts continues to this day.…”