Trichomonas vaginalis and Associated Health Risk Factors among Prison Inmates in Umuahia, Abia State, Southeastern Nigeria

This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of Trichomonas vaginalis infections among prison inmates in Umuahia, Abia State.

Approximately 350 inmates aged 18 to 61 participated in the study. A total number of 70 high vaginal swabs of female participants and 350 urine samples from both male and females    were examined using direct wet mount methods. Questionnaire was used to obtain socio-demographic and behavioral factors of the participants.

The results showed that, the overall prevalence of T. vaginalis infections was 43.4%. .The result of Chi-square analysis showed a significant difference (P < 0.05) in the prevalence of T. vaginalis infection among the men (33.6%)   and women (82.8%). Furthermore, the prevalence of T. vaginalis was 11.0% and 22.8%, respectively,    in individuals between 31-40 years. No infection was noted among men between 18-20 years of age. Moreover, examination of urine and vaginal swabs combinations revealed high infection in women. Questionnaire analysis indicated no significant relationship between multiple sexual partners and unprotected sex with T. vaginalis infection (p>0.05). It was also found that, inmates showed symptoms, such as light burning after urination and itching/rashes at the private part while some infected cases were asymptomatic.

The findings highlight the need for adequate and improved health care for prison inmates as well as their examination and treatment before release.