Prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases among new female drug abusers in a rehabilitation centre.

The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) among female drug abusers was studied by screening 130 new inmates of a rehabilitation centre. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire, physical examination and specimen collection for laboratory investigation at the Community Medicine Clinic of HUSM. The majority (64.6%) were Malays and self-confessed sex workers (77.7%). A high prevalence of syphilis (50.8%), hepatitis B (52.2%), moniliasis (23.8%), trichomoniasis (19.2%) and gonococcal vaginitis (8.5%) was noted. More than half of them harbour 2 or more STDs. Six subjects, of whom 5 were Malays, were HIV positive. The evidence indicates that female drug abusers need a thorough screening for STD followed by an aggressive treatment regimen. Since the majority of them were born Muslims, they should have access to spiritual counselling and rehabilitation, stressing on repentance, and adopting a compassionate and forgiving approach.