Sexually transmitted infections and associated factors among Wollo University students, Northeast Ethiopia

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) represent a large burden worldwide, with an annual incidence of about 333 million cases. In Ethiopia, studies on STIs among youths are very few. Investigating STIs in general and particularly among youths, is an important input to designing policies and strategies aimed at preventing and controlling infections. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of STIs among Wollo University students, in Northeast Ethiopia. Material and methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among Wollo University students. Sample size included 598 participants. A simple random sampling technique was employed, and data were collected by pre-tested self-administered questionnaire. Epi Data version 4.6 was applied for data entry, and statistical package for social science version 25 was used for statistical analysis. Descriptive statistical analysis and binary logistic regression were utilized to identify factors associated with STIs. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI was employed to show the strength and direction of the association, and p-value was used to indicate statistical significance. Results: Self-reported STIs prevalence in the last 12 months prior to the study was 59 (21.5%; 95% CI: 16.5-26.5%) among students who were sexually active. Non-dormitory students (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 4.56, 95% CI: 1.21-17.21%), having sex with a casual partner (AOR = 2.98, 95% CI: 1.14-7.81%), and poor knowledge on STIs (AOR = 2.95, 95% CI: 1.28-6.81%) were found significantly associated with a history of STIs in the past 12 months among Wollo University students. Conclusions: The prevalence of STIs is high among Wollo University students. Non-dormitory students, having sex with a casual partner, and poor knowledge on STIs are positively associated factors in students' reporting on STIs in the last 12 months. Improving the level of knowledge and awareness of students about STIs may decrease the prevalence of STIs among students.