Jana Jarolimova, MD, MPH

Pronouns

She/Her/Hers

Rank

Instructor

Institution

MGH

BWH-MGH Title

Assistant in Medicine

Department

Medicine

Authors

Jana Jarolimova*, Sabina Govere, Sthabile Shezi, Lungile M Ngcobo, Ashley Stuckwisch, Dani Zionts, Nduduzo Dube, Robert A. Parker, Ingrid V. Bassett

Sexually transmitted infection testing integrated with HIV prevention and contraceptive services in hair salons in urban South Africa

WMSS 2022

The Women in Medicine & Science Symposium is a critical forum for bringing together women in academic medicine. It is important to me to participate in such an event that increases the visibility of both established women leaders and women trainees, as this is central to both my own career development and to the support and mentoring of the next generation of women clinicians and scientists. My research interests focus on improving diagnosis and treatment of curable sexually transmitted infections in the context of HIV prevention in sub-Saharan Africa using methods of epidemiology and implementation science.

Background

Curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) increase HIV transmission risk and cause morbidity for women. STI testing in community-based venues may address barriers to diagnosis and treatment in South Africa.

Methods

Women accessing HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis or hormonal contraception in hair salons in urban South Africa within an ongoing study are offered STI testing by self-collected vaginal swab (gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis) and fingerstick blood (syphilis). Treatment is offered at the hair salon or local clinic.

Results

Of 73 eligible women (median age 26y), 71 (97%) accepted STI testing; three (4%) provided blood specimens only. Twenty-three (32%) reported a history of STI and 20 (27%) perceived a ‘moderate’ or ‘great’ chance of acquiring an STI in the next year. Thirty-two of 65 (49%) were in an age-disparate relationship; 33/50 (66%) never used condoms in the preceding month. Among 64 participants with all results available, 19 (30%) had at least one STI. The majority with an STI (15/19, 79%) were asymptomatic. Sixteen (84%) elected treatment in the salon.

Conclusions

STI testing in hair salons in urban South Africa, integrated with HIV prevention and contraceptive services, is acceptable, reaches women with risk factors for STIs and HIV, and reveals high STI prevalence.