Prevalence and pattern of sexually transmitted infections detected using viasure real-time PCR sexual health panel 1 at everight diagnostic and laboratory Owerri, Nigeria (2020-2024)

Background: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) remain a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, with significant implications for reproductive health, fertility, and HIV transmission. Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for effective management, yet many settings rely on syndromic approaches that can miss asymptomatic or multiple infections.Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence, distribution, and co-infection patterns of selected STIs among individuals tested at Everight Diagnostic and Laboratory, Owerri, Nigeria, between 2020 and 2024, using the VIASURE Real-Time PCR Sexual Health Panel 1.Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using laboratory records of 662 individuals who underwent molecular STI screening during the study period. Demographic data and test results were extracted and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Prevalence rates were calculated, and infection patterns were examined by sex and age group.Results: Among the 662 participants screened, 403 (60.9%) tested positive for at least one STI. The mean age was 36 years (SD=13.2; range 17-88 years). More males (64%) than females (36%) were infected. Multiple infections were observed in 54.32% of cases, while 45.65% had single infections. Gardnerella vaginalis was the most prevalent pathogen (40% of 769 total detections, 77% of single infections), followed by Candida albicans (11%) and Ureaplasma parvum (10%). Prevalence peaked in the 25-34 age group (32.88% for Gardnerella vaginalis) and 55 and above group (55.07% for Gardnerella vaginalis). Trichomonas vaginalis showed high prevalence in older age groups (16.87% in 45-54). The highest infection burden was among individuals aged 25-34 years.Conclusion: This study highlights a high burden of single and multiple STIs among sexually active individuals in Southeast Nigeria and underscores the value of molecular diagnostics in detecting co-infections often missed by syndromic management. The findings reinforce the need for strengthened STI prevention, targeted screening, and public health education campaigns.