Factors associated with the increase in sexually transmitted infections in men: an integrative review

Abstract

Objective: To analyse the scientific evidence regarding the factors associated with risk behavior in men in relation to the increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Method: An integrative review based on a bibliographic search of the PubMed, WoS, CINHAL, and Cochrane databases. Results/Discussion: 151 articles were identified applying the following selection criteria: a) use of English or Spanish, and b) publication between 2015 and 2021. 128 articles were discarded after reading the title and abstract, leaving a total of 23. In accordance with the adapted version of the Precede-Proceed Model, the following factors associated with the presence of STIs: predisposing factors: drug use, alcohol, multiple partners, STI diagnosis, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) administration, and sexual orientation; facilitating factors of risk behavior: unprotected sexual intercourse, needle exchange; and reinforcing factors/predictors of behavior change: early diagnosis, use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), educational interventions and health programs. All these factors should be considered in a socio-demographic and cultural context along with factors such as age, country of origin, migrant status, work or income level, and educational level. Conclusion: The prevalence of STIs has decreased, but further improvements are necessary. Identification of all the factors associated with risk behavior and the application of the Precede-Proceed method can help to strengthen the impact of educational interventions designed by health professionals with regard to changing sexual behavior.