A Retrospective Study on Sexually Transmitted Infections among Patients in General Hospital, Okigwe, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a global public health challenge due to their high prevalence, asymptomatic presentation, and severe complications, particularly their association with HIV/AIDS. Given the scarcity of research in Nigeria, particularly at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, this study focuses on determining the prevalence of STIs among patients who visited the General Hospital, Okigwe, Imo State, Nigeria. This study was conducted at Okigwe General Hospital, Imo State, Nigeria, using a retrospective research design. Medical records of patients diagnosed with selected sexually transmitted infections (HIV/AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis, and hepatitis B) between 2018 and 2022 were reviewed. A total of 6,420 patient records were accessed with the assistance of hospital staff to determine the incidence and patterns of STIs within the study population. Out of 377 medical records reviewed between 2018 and 2022 at Okigwe General Hospital, HIV/AIDS emerged as the most prevalent STI, accounting for 35.0% of cases, followed by syphilis (21.5%), gonorrhoea (19.1%), herpes (13.5%), and trichomoniasis (10.9%). Patterns of antibiotic use showed that ceftriaxone was the most frequently administered drug, particularly in 2021 when 27.8% of patients received it, while azithromycin and ciprofloxacin were also commonly prescribed for syphilis and gonorrhoea. The prevalence trends of the selected STIs remained relatively stable across the five-year period, with only minor fluctuations. The consistently high burden of HIV/AIDS and syphilis underscores the need for strengthened screening programs, improved access to treatment, and continuous monitoring of antimicrobial resistance to ensure effective STI management in the region. The study revealed fluctuating patterns of STIs between 2018–2022, with genital ulcers and HIV showing notable peaks, while gonorrhea and syphilis remained persistently prevalent. Antibiotic use was dominated by ceftriaxone, with variations reflecting evolving resistance and clinical practices. These findings highlight the need for sustained surveillance, prevention, and adaptive treatment strategies.