1. What is this study about?

This study investigated the occurrence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM). This study is unique in that we looked for these infections in the throat and anus in addition to the genitals in both men with and without penile discharge (the typical symptom associated with these STI pathogens in males).

2. Why does this matter?

MSM, despite being at increased risk of STIs, often go undiagnosed due to lack of symptoms. This study reveals that approximately 2 in 5 MSM have an STI, even when they show no symptoms. These unnoticed and untreated infections can lead to transmission to uninfected partners. Furthermore, our study highlights the high rates of syphilis in this group.

3. What drew your interest in this area of research?

Non-HIV STIs are largely overlooked in MSM studies in South Africa. Globally, the prevalence of and antimicrobial resistance in STI pathogens is increasing, and often disproportionately affects MSM.

Historically, MSM have been unrepresented in national STI surveillance programmes. Yet, they represent persons who bear a significant burden of disease. Thus, we actively sought to address this by establishing the first sentinel site in which MSM are exclusively recruited, and we hope to expand our efforts in future.

4. What was your role in the study?

As the lead researcher (principal investigator) on this study, I played a pivotal role in overseeing the entire project, ensuring the scientific and ethical integrity of the study, and reporting our findings to various national and international stakeholders. Additionally, I was involved in the molecular testing for this study, working closely with other scientists in the unit.

5. Why should people read this article?

Policymakers, clinicians, researchers and MSM themselves should read this article to improve their knowledge of STIs; to increase awareness about asymptomatic STIs within their communities, and ultimately generate demand for STI testing services in MSM.

6. What impact do you hope this study will have on public health policy and access to healthcare?

The findings of this study are crucial for public health policy and access to healthcare. We hope this study will underscore the necessity of testing for syphilis and other STIs in the genitals, throat, and anus, regardless of symptoms in MSM. We aim to use our findings to advocate for the implementation of these services in the public healthcare sector.

Dr Bianca Da Costa Dias is a senior medical scientist in the Centre for HIV & STIs, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa.

For a more in-depth look into this unique study, download the full article below.