Sexual behavior and preventive practices among truck drivers to prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections.

OBJECTIVE

to analyze the sexual behavior and preventive practices of truck drivers related to the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

METHOD: a cross-sectional study conducted in Picos, Piauí, Brazil involving 211 truck drivers approached at three fuel stations between August 2023 and January 2024. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic, behavioral, and sexual health data. Rapid tests for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B and C were offered. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

RESULTS

of the total sample, 209 participants (99.1%) were male. Sixty participants (28.4%) reported experiencing signs or symptoms in the genital region suggestive of an STI. Consistent condom use was reported by 44 participants (22.1%), and 54 (31%) obtained supplies from the public health system. A significant association was found between signs/symptoms and number of sexual partners in the past 12 months (p=0.004), casual partners (p=0.015), and illicit drug use (p=0.017). Among those reporting previous STI symptoms, 61% sought treatment, mostly through the Unified Health System (SUS), while 39% did not seek care.

CONCLUSION

the findings reveal diverse sexual practices among truck drivers and identify factors associated with increased exposure to STIs. These results underscore the need for strategies to promote the sexual health of this population.