Prevalence and determinants of symptomatic sexually transmitted infections among youth in pastoralist community refugee camps, in Somali region eastern Ethiopia: Multivariable regression analysis

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Problem considered</h3> Sexually transmitted infections(STIs) is a major public health problem among vulnerable youth in refugee settings. However, there is paucity of information on the burden of STIs among youth in Refugee Camps in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess symptomatic STIs and associated factors among youth in pastoralist refugee camp Eastern Ethiopia. <h3>Methods</h3> A cross-sectional study was conducted in January 2024 among 387 youth randomly selected from the pastoralist community at Kebri-Beyah refugee camp. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews using a WHO pre-tested structured questionnaire. The data was entered into Epi-data and analyzed using SPSS. A bivariable logistic regression model was used to identify potential variables for multivariable logistic regression at a P value < 0.25. In multivariable analysis a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant association with STIs. <h3>Results</h3> The mean age of the participants was 19.9 years. A majority (60.3%) of the participants were between 20 to 24 years. The prevalence of symptomatic STIs among youth in refugee camp was 20.0% (95% CI=16.1, 23.9). History of previous STIs [AOR = 3.22; 95% CI: 1.21, 8.53], engaging in risky sexual behaviors [AOR = 4.81; 95% CI: 2.36, 9.81], and poor knowledge of STIs [AOR = 2.65;1.90, 4.94] were statistically significant associated with STIs. <h3>Conclusion</h3> A study revealed that 20% of youths in a refugee camp had STIs. Risk factors such as previous STIs, engaging in risky sexual behaviors, and poor knowledge were identified. Health care providers should promote safer sexual practices in refugee camp.