Assessment of behavioral risk factors in emerging anogenital viral sexually transmitted infections: An observational cross-sectional study in eastern India

Background: High-risk sexual behaviors like multiple sexual partners, unprotected sexual intercourse, early coital debut, increase in oral sex, and anal coitus are associated with an increasing trend of viral sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. So, we conducted this study to determine the present scenario of sexual practice and the emerging trend of viral STIs in the Indian population. Materials and Methods: An institution-based observational cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with anogenital viral STIs after taking informed consent. A detailed history was taken regarding patients’ particulars, sexual practice and addiction profile. Data were analyzed by Med-Calc statistical software version 12.5.0.0. Result and Analysis: Two hundred and thirty-four eligible consenting patients with anogenital viral STIs were included in the study. Most common age group were 25–44 years (54.70%, n = 128); male:female = 188:46. Majority of the population were factory workers (33.33%, n = 78), truckers (13.67%, n = 32), and commercial sex workers (4.27%). History of migration was present in 73.50% (n = 172). The mean age of coital debut was lower in females (P < 0.0001). Approximately 86.3% (n = 202) of patients were heterosexual. The mean number of nonspouse heterosexual partners was 15.81 ± 20.76. Partners of homosexual individuals (n = 32) were mostly co-worker (n = 22) or co-student (n = 10) and only four patients used condom regularly. About 56.4% (n = 132) patients had adequate knowledge of condom benefit though only 33.33% (n = 44) used it consistently. History of alcohol consumption during sexual exposure was present in 31.62% (n = 74) of people. Among them, adequate knowledge of condom benefit was present in 54 people but only 12 of them used it consistently (P = 0.028). Conclusion: Promotion and provision of sex education, awareness programs, and strategies to reduce high-risk behavior should be conducted among the population.