Vulnerable street youth – sexual practices and STI awareness

Eme Owoaje, University of Ibadan
Obioma C. Uchendu, University of Ibadan
Oludoyinmola O. Ojifinni, University College Hospital, Ibadan

Street youth are a vulnerable, highly mobile population with greater risk of STIs. This descriptive study about sexual experiences and health information was among 827 street youth in Ibadan, Nigeria. Mean age was 19.65±2.80 years, with 68.8% males and 91% single. Mean age at first sex was 15.2±3.26 years among the 78.5% who were sexually active. Casual sex was reported by 17.5% while only 54.3% of those in a stable relationship believed their partners were faithful. Experience of unwanted touching (67.6%) and rape attempts (16.7%) were reported. Although 76.4% believed STIs infect both sexes, 99.9% and 34.3% could not recognize any symptoms (in females/males). Information about STIs was from media (86.0%), family/friends (72.2%), health facilities (27%) and school (9.5%). The knowledge about STIs is low among the study population although their risk of STIs is high. Correct information should be provided on the media to improve their knowledge.