STD Repeaters: Implications for the Individual and STD Transmission in a Population

Abstract

STD repeaters are important as a population of study for two primary reasons: 1) repeat infections may lead to an increased risk in STD sequelae, and 2) persons with repeat infections represent a disproportionate share of STD morbidity and may be members of the core group or core transmitters. We argue that it is likely that there are two different groups of repeaters. First, there are women who are the recipients of repeat infection as a result of the risky behaviors of their sex partners. Second, there are heterosexual and homosexual men and some women who engage in behavior that is more typical of core transmission patterns. These groups will require different interventions. We discuss these issues further later in the chapter.