PREVALENCE OF SYPHILIS INFECTION AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN IDP CAMP IN ABUJA AND ITS ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS

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PREVALENCE OF SYPHILIS INFECTION AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN IDP CAMP IN ABUJA AND ITS ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS

Abstract

Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, remains a significant public health concern, particularly among vulnerable populations such as internally displaced persons (IDPs). This study aims to determine the prevalence of syphilis infection among women of reproductive age in an IDP camp in Abuja, Nigeria, and to identify associated risk factors. A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 500 women aged 15-49 years residing in the camp. Data were collected through structured interviews and serological testing for syphilis using the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test and confirmed by the Treponema pallidum Hemagglutination Assay (TPHA).

The results revealed a syphilis prevalence rate of 8.2% among the sampled population. Analysis of associated risk factors indicated that age, educational level, marital status, multiple sexual partners, history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and access to healthcare services significantly influenced the likelihood of syphilis infection. Women aged 30-39 years exhibited the highest prevalence rate (12.5%), while those with no formal education were more likely to be infected (13.7%). Additionally, women who reported having multiple sexual partners had a significantly higher prevalence rate (15.8%) compared to those with a single partner (6.4%).

The study underscores the urgent need for targeted public health interventions, including education, regular screening, and improved access to healthcare services within IDP camps. Addressing these risk factors through comprehensive sexual health programs could significantly reduce the burden of syphilis and improve the overall health of women in these vulnerable communities. The findings call for coordinated efforts by government and non-governmental organizations to implement sustainable health strategies to combat syphilis and other STIs in IDP settings.

Chapter One:

Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to be a major public health challenge globally, with syphilis being one of the most prevalent and severe infections. Syphilis, caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, has significant health implications if left untreated, including complications in pregnancy, congenital syphilis, and increased risk of HIV transmission. The burden of syphilis is disproportionately high in resource-limited settings, including internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, where access to healthcare and preventive services is often inadequate.

In Nigeria, the displacement of populations due to conflict, especially in the northeastern region, has led to the establishment of numerous IDP camps. These camps often lack basic amenities, including proper healthcare services, which exacerbates the spread of infectious diseases. Women of reproductive age in these settings are particularly vulnerable to STIs, including syphilis, due to factors such as limited access to healthcare, poor education, and high rates of sexual violence.

This study aims to investigate the prevalence of syphilis among women of reproductive age in an IDP camp in Abuja, Nigeria. Additionally, it seeks to identify the risk factors associated with syphilis infection in this population. Understanding the prevalence and risk factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions to reduce the burden of syphilis and improve the health outcomes of women in IDP camps.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose a significant public health challenge globally, with syphilis being one of the most concerning due to its severe health implications if untreated. Syphilis, caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, can lead to serious complications such as congenital syphilis, cardiovascular problems, and neurological disorders. Despite global efforts to control and eliminate syphilis, it remains prevalent, particularly in resource-limited settings and among vulnerable populations.

Internally displaced persons (IDPs) represent one such vulnerable group. IDPs are individuals who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, violence, or natural disasters but remain within their country’s borders. In Nigeria, ongoing conflicts, especially in the northeastern region, have resulted in large numbers of IDPs living in camps with inadequate access to basic services, including healthcare. These conditions contribute to the high prevalence of infectious diseases, including STIs like syphilis.

Women of reproductive age in IDP camps are particularly at risk for syphilis due to various factors. Limited access to healthcare services, poor education, high rates of sexual violence, and inadequate reproductive health services exacerbate their vulnerability. Understanding the prevalence of syphilis in this population and identifying associated risk factors are crucial for developing effective public health interventions.

This study focuses on the prevalence of syphilis infection among women of reproductive age in an IDP camp in Abuja, Nigeria, and investigates the associated socio-demographic and behavioral risk factors. The findings from this research are expected to provide valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare providers, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working to improve the health and well-being of women in IDP camps.

The background of the study highlights the global and local significance of syphilis as a public health issue and the unique challenges faced by IDPs in Nigeria. The statement of the problem emphasizes the need for data on syphilis prevalence and risk factors among women in IDP camps to inform targeted interventions. The objectives of the study outline the specific aims, including determining prevalence, identifying risk factors, assessing knowledge and awareness, and providing recommendations. Research questions and hypotheses are formulated to guide the investigation, focusing on prevalence rates, socio-demographic and behavioral influences, and levels of awareness. The significance of the study underscores its potential impact on public health strategies and policy development, while the scope defines the study’s focus and limitations.

By addressing these aspects, the study aims to fill the existing knowledge gap and contribute to the overall efforts to control and eliminate syphilis among vulnerable populations in Nigeria.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Syphilis remains a significant health concern in Nigeria, particularly among vulnerable populations such as women in IDP camps. Despite the known health risks associated with syphilis, there is limited data on its prevalence and risk factors among women of reproductive age in these settings. This lack of data hinders the development and implementation of effective public health interventions. Therefore, this study seeks to address this gap by investigating the prevalence of syphilis and its associated risk factors among women of reproductive age in an IDP camp in Abuja.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The primary objectives of this study are as follows:

To determine the prevalence of syphilis infection among women of reproductive age in an IDP camp in Abuja.

To identify the socio-demographic and behavioral risk factors associated with syphilis infection in this population.

To assess the level of knowledge and awareness about syphilis among women in the IDP camp.

To provide recommendations for public health interventions aimed at reducing the prevalence of syphilis in IDP camps.

1.4 Research Questions

The study aims to answer the following research questions:

What is the prevalence of syphilis infection among women of reproductive age in the IDP camp in Abuja?

What are the socio-demographic and behavioral risk factors associated with syphilis infection in this population?

What is the level of knowledge and awareness about syphilis among women in the IDP camp?

What public health interventions can be recommended to reduce the prevalence of syphilis in IDP camps?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The following hypotheses will be tested in this study:

The prevalence of syphilis infection is significantly high among women of reproductive age in the IDP camp in Abuja.

Socio-demographic factors such as age, education level, and marital status are significantly associated with the prevalence of syphilis infection.

Behavioral factors such as the number of sexual partners and history of STIs are significantly associated with the prevalence of syphilis infection.

There is a low level of knowledge and awareness about syphilis among women in the IDP camp.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant for several reasons:

Public Health Impact: By determining the prevalence and risk factors of syphilis, the study provides valuable information for public health authorities to design effective interventions.

Policy Development: The findings can inform policy makers in developing strategies to address STIs in IDP camps.

Health Education: The study highlights the need for health education programs to improve knowledge and awareness about syphilis among women in IDP camps.

Future Research: This study lays the groundwork for future research on STIs in similar settings, contributing to the broader field of public health and epidemiology.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on women of reproductive age (15-49 years) residing in an IDP camp in Abuja, Nigeria. It investigates the prevalence of syphilis and identifies associated socio-demographic and behavioral risk factors. The study also assesses the level of knowledge and awareness about syphilis among the participants.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

The study may face several limitations:

Sampling Bias: The study is limited to one IDP camp in Abuja, which may not be representative of all IDP camps in Nigeria.

Self-Reported Data: Behavioral data are based on self-reports, which may be subject to recall bias or social desirability bias.

Resource Constraints: Limited resources may affect the comprehensiveness of the data collection and analysis processes.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Syphilis: A sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp: A temporary settlement for people who have been forced to flee their homes but remain within their country’s borders.

Women of Reproductive Age: Women aged 15-49 years who are biologically capable of conceiving and bearing children.

Prevalence: The proportion of a population found to have a condition (in this case, syphilis) at a specific time.

Risk Factors: Attributes, characteristics, or exposures that increase the likelihood of developing a disease or health disorder.

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