Sexually transmitted infections in Pakistan

It is difficult to show a reliable breakup of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Pakistan. Of the few studies available, syphilis has been shown to form a third of the STIs, followed closely by Gonococcal Urethritis. Other studies, however, mention non-specific urethritis as the leading disease. The variation in figures probably depend upon the availability of resources to the workers and the population under study.
The exact incidence of STIs is difficult to calculate, especially in Pakistan, because of lack of adequate health infrastructure and reporting system, lack of epidemiological studies conducted by various health professionals, social shyness on part of the community in general and inadequate data on the male or female sex workers’ community.
A 2002 study examined the risk of Pakistani truck drivers acquiring STIs. It found that multiple sexual partnerships were common, despite high levels of awareness of the sexual transmission of HIV. It reported that truck drivers did not realize the risks associated with unprotected sex, and that most did not believe AIDS existed in their country. The report recommended that condom use should be promoted, in particular by interpersonal communication.

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