Defining research priorities for bacterial sexually transmitted infections in Canada.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to define priority areas for research on chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis in Canada through the use of a consensus method.

METHODS

A modified Delphi method was conducted, consisting of two online surveys and an in-person meeting. Participants included people working in bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) across Canada, including clinicians, policy-makers, public health practitioners, and researchers.

RESULTS

Consensus was achieved regarding the most important priority topics in bacterial STI research in Canada, within five general priority areas: the epidemiology of bacterial STIs, screening, partner notification and contact tracing, antimicrobial resistance, and identification of best practices for the prevention and control of bacterial STIs.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this consensus process can be used to inform research efforts, which could contribute to more effective control of bacterial STIs in Canada.