Study Finds Higher Incidence of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Returnee Migrant Workers in Chitwan

Chitwan, Magh 29: A study has revealed that workers returning from overseas employment are showing a higher prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). This finding emerged from a study conducted by the ART centers at Bharatpur Hospital, which treats HIV-infected individuals, and Narayani Hospital in Birgunj.

Krishna Hari Sapkota, head of the ART Center at Bharatpur Hospital, informed that out of 1,637 individuals tested across the two hospitals, 102 were found to have STDs.

According to him, among those infected with STDs, 32 were returnee migrant workers who had gone abroad for employment. Additionally, six were involved in sex work, 22 were their partners, 11 were from the transgender community, and 31 were categorized as others.

Center Head Sapkota stated that syphilis infection was detected in the highest number, 88 individuals, among those with STDs. He further informed that other STDs found included gonorrhea, uterine infections, and fungal infections.

Dr. Pramod Poudel, a senior physician at Bharatpur Hospital, urged caution, noting that the transmission of STDs has increased due to unsafe sexual contact. He emphasized the need for safe sexual practices and regular health check-ups.

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