Estimates of sexually transmitted infection prevalence and prevalence ratio among international migrants compared with non-migrants: A global systematic review and meta-analysis.
Kathryn Mackey, Isra Al-Sharabi, Raphaela Berghammer-Bohmer et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among international migrants compared to non-migrants, analyzing data from 85 studies across 31 countries. The study found a high pooled prevalence of chlamydia (53.55 per 1000), gonorrhea (20.77 per 1000), and probable active syphilis (17.36 per 1000). Migrants exhibited a higher prevalence ratio for probable active and seropositive syphilis.
Key findings
- Pooled prevalence of chlamydia was 53.55 per 1000 among migrants.
- Pooled prevalence of gonorrhea was 20.77 per 1000 among migrants.
- Pooled prevalence of probable active syphilis was 17.36 per 1000 among migrants.
- Migrants had a higher prevalence ratio for probable active and seropositive syphilis compared to non-migrants.
Why it matters
Understanding the prevalence of STIs among migrants is crucial for public health strategies, as it highlights the need for targeted prevention and control measures in this vulnerable population, which may be overlooked in broader health initiatives.
What to keep in mind
The studies included were heterogeneous, which limited the precision of estimates, and many lacked disaggregated demographic data.