Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis of risky sexual behaviors among adolescents and young adults in West Africa.

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health concern, particularly among adolescents and young adults (AYA) in West Africa who reported higher prevalence of risky sexual behaviors. We therefore proposed a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the prevalence of risky sexual behaviors for STIs among adolescents and young adults living in West Africa. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Systematic searches of electronic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, African Index Medicus) will be conducted. Studies published between January 1, 2013, and June 30, 2023, on the prevalence of sexual behaviors associated with STIs risk in AYA living in West Africa will be included. Two reviewers will independently conduct studies selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. The selection of eligible studies will be based on titles and abstracts, followed by full-text review. The risk of bias assessment for eligible studies will be performed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) tool. If possible, a meta-analysis of data on the prevalence of each sexual risk behavior will be performed. The heterogeneity will be statistically assessed using a I² statistic. This protocol is developed following the guideline of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses Protocols 2015. STATA or R software will be used for the meta-analysis.

Discussion: This review will estimate the prevalence of risky sexual behaviors among AYA aged 15-24 years in West Africa to inform appropriate interventions.