Risk factors for sexually transmitted diseases and casual sex among Chinese patients attending sexually transmitted disease clinics in Hong Kong

BACKGROUND: The risk factors for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and having casual sex among the Chinese people are unknown. GOAL: The goal of the study was to estimate the prevalence of STDs and to develop a profile of risk behavior among patients attending STD clinics in Hong Kong. STUDY DESIGN: In a clinic-based, cross-sectional study, 448 patients attending two government STD clinics were randomly sampled and interviewed by means of a structured questionnaire. RESULTS: The prevalence of STDs was 51% (70% of men and 35% of women). Attendees who had STDs diagnosed were more likely to be male, never married, and smokers and alcohol users (ever) and to have had casual sex or sex during travel with someone not their usual partner. Those who did not always use condoms were more likely to be male and never married. Having had casual sex was reported by 63% of the respondents. Those who reported having had casual sexual encounters were more likely to have the following characteristics: male; never married; no religious belief; ever smoker and alcohol user; current STD; had sex during travel; history of STD; inconsistent condom user; and perception of being at low risk for STD. After adjustment, only male gender was associated with casual sexual encounters. CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicated several risk factors among Chinese patients for the acquisition of STDs, for not using condoms, and for having casual sex. This information is useful in strengthening and evaluating currently available STD prevention and control strategies for the Chinese population in Hong Kong and elsewhere.