COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AMONG COMMERCIAL DRIVERS IN URBAN AND RURAL NIGERIA

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to pose significant global Public health challenges, particularly in low and middle-income countries where healthcare access and public awareness are limited. Among vulnerable occupational groups, commercial drivers are considered a key high-risk population due to their mobility, extended time away from home, and increased likelihood of engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors. Understanding the patterns and determinants of STI prevalence among this group is essential for informing effective public health strategies. Aim: To determine the prevalence and identify the associated risk factors of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among commercial drivers in urban and rural areas, and to compare the differences in STI burden and behavioral patterns between the two populations. Methods: A cross-sectional, comparative study design was employed involving 400 licensed male commercial drivers 200 from urban areas and 200 from rural locations. Participants were recruited using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through interviewer-administered structured questionnaires that captured demographic information, sexual practices, substance use behaviors, and healthcare access. Additionally, participants underwent laboratory testing for HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia using standard diagnostic protocols. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, chi-square tests for group comparisons, and logistic regression to identify predictors of STI prevalence. Results: The overall prevalence of at least one STI among participants was 29.5%, with urban drivers exhibiting a significantly higher prevalence (35%) compared to rural drivers (24%). Key risk factors associated with increased STI risk included having multiple sexual partners, inconsistent or non-use of condoms, frequent alcohol and drug use, and limited access to STI-related healthcare services. Urban drivers were more likely to report engagement with sex workers and substance use, whereas rural drivers exhibited lower awareness of STI prevention methods and faced greater barriers to healthcare access due to geographic and socioeconomic constraints. Conclusion: The findings highlight a substantial burden of STIs among commercial drivers, with notable urban-rural differences in prevalence and associated risk factors. These disparities underscore the need for targeted public health interventions, including mobile STI screening services, behavioral education, and expanded access to sexual healthcare particularly in rural areas. Addressing both behavioral and structural drivers of infection is critical to mitigating STI transmission among this highly mobile and vulnerable population.