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Author's reply to editorial comment to sex among Asian men and women: The global better sex survey in Asia

Tan HM

International Journal of Urology, 2009;16:515.
DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-2042.2009.02295.x
Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext Sociodemographic profile, contraceptive practice and awareness of HIV infection among unmarried postpartum women in a tertiary centre in Malaysia

Mustafa KB, Ibrahim Nb, Noraziana AW, Ayu AS, Suhaiza A, Awang M

International Medical Journal Malaysia, 2014;13(2):41-47.
MyJurnal

Introduction: To describe the sociodemographic profile, contraceptive practice, and awareness of HIV infection among unmarried post partum women in the biggest government hospital in Pahang.
Methods: A cross sectional questionnaire-proforma-based study was conducted for one year duration from August 2010 until July 2011 by identifying and recruiting all the unmarried women upon admission for delivery. Basic information were obtained from the use of patients’ case notes, and further related and necessary information were obtained from a direct face-to-face interview based on a proforma.
Results: A total of 121 unmarried women were identified and recruited. The age ranged from 13 to 36 years with a mean age of 21.6 years. 31.4% were teenagers. Only 16% of patients have tertiary education, and 2.5% never had any formal education. About one third of the women were smokers or ex-smokers, 7.5% had consumed alcohol, but none denied ever use of any recreational drugs. Almost 9% has prior history of being sexually assaulted. About three quarter of the women never used any contraceptive method. Majority of the patients (85.1%) were aware of HIV transmission risk; 75% never had any antenatal checkup or booked at late gestation (> 20 weeks); and 45.8% were not aware of any support groups for single mothers. Conclusion: Single unmarried women are associated with disadvantaged sociodemographic profile.
Contraceptive practice was also very low despite significant awareness towards risk of HIV infection. Further follow up, support and care should be offered to these women.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext Knowledge and attitude towards HIV/AIDS among transsexuals in Kuantan, Pahang

Ramli, M., Mohd Aznan, M.A., Maliya. S., Muhamad Shaiful Lizam, M.A., Muhammad Salman, M.H., Mohamad Faqihuddin, H., et al.

International Medical Journal Malaysia, 2016;15(1):45-50.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Lack of knowledge and negative attitude towards HIV/AIDS may be the risk factors for HIV infection among transsexuals. Research on knowledge and attitude towards HIV infection in transsexual communities is very limited at both local and international levels. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude towards HIV infection among the male-to-female transsexual community in Kuantan, Pahang.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out from July to August 2014 among 33 male-to-female transsexuals in Kuantan, Pahang. Convenience sampling was used. Participants who gave consent answered a self-administered questionnaire. Data obtained was analyzed with descriptive statistics, χ2-test, and independent sample t test.
Results: The majority of the subjects in this study were 29 years and below (48.5%), Muslims (93.9%), and had completed up to secondary education (60.6%). Most of them were sex workers (60.6%), and had relatively low income (no income to RM 3000, mean of RM1528). A total of 87.9% of the subjects demonstrated good knowledge and also positive attitude towards HIV/AIDS. Level of education was significantly associated with scores in knowledge (p=0.01).
Conclusions: Despite the positive outcome from this study, misconceptions towards HIV/AIDS still exist among transsexuals. Education and interventions from multiple directions on HIV/AIDS are essential to deliver the correct information to this population, so as to emphasize prevention, early detection, and holistic medical care. Transsexuals also require attention from religious bodies and non-governmental organizations to help them in employment, financial, spiritual, and psycho-social issues.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext The Health Status of Muslim Women with HIV/AIDS in Arab Countries

Salih, F.A.M., Haque, Q.M.

International Medical Journal Malaysia, 2007;6(2):1-5.
MyJurnal

The number of people worldwide living with human immunodeficiency virus/ acquired immunodeficiency virus (HIV/AIDS) is more than 40 million, among them 17.7 millions are women (UNAIDS/WHO, 2006) The latest report from the Eastern Mediterranean Region shows that at least one million people are infected with HIV; among them 30% are women. The great majority of reported cases in the Region are men. However, the ratio of men to women cases varies in different countries. It ranges between “9:1 (as for example in Egypt), to 2:1” (as in Morocco and some parts of Yemen). Due to religious, social and cultural values regarding female purity, women and girls living with HIV and AIDS are subjected to greater discrimination than men. WHO reports show that a large percentage of the infected women in Arab countries have contacted the infection from their husbands especially migrants and drug abusers. In Arab countries, studies conducted show that 86% of women choose not to disclose their status of infection for the fear of abandonment, rejection, discrimination, violence, upsetting family members, and accusations of infidelity from their partners, families, and communities. As a result, many women only seek help at the last minute when they are already been terminally ill. Violence against women and girls in its different forms increases women's vulnerability to HIV infection and undermines AIDS control efforts. The fear of violence prevents many women from accessing HIV information, from getting testing and seeking treatment. Stigma and discrimination may also prevent them from carrying out their normal life activities. When women are blamed, this can lead to heightened levels of sexual and domestic violence, abandonment by families and communities, forced abortion or sterilization, dismissal from employment and loss of livelihood opportunities. A study of AIDS-related discrimination in Arab region found that over ten percent of women had lost financial support from family members since being diagnosed as HIV positive. There is a great deal of evidence to establish the significant link between gender-based violence and rising rates of HIV infection among women and girls throughout the world. HIV-positive women must be supported to make their own reproductive choices about whether and/or when to have children. Promote male involvement in sexual and reproductive health programmes. Finally the stigma, discrimination and violations must be stopped.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext ‘Pinky' tooth: a rare faces of delayed tooth eruption

Wan Noor Rabiatul Akmalia Wan Abd Razak, Yushaini Ahmad

International Medical Journal Malaysia, 2017;16(21):22-22.
MyJurnal

Delayed tooth eruption (DTE) is the emergence of a tooth into oral cavity that
deviates from norms established for different races, ethnics and sexes, which commonly caused
either by local or systemic conditions. (Copied from article).

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext Psycho-social and spiritual backgrounds, experiences, and needs as a transsexual: a qualitative study within Persatuan Insaf Pahang

Drama, S., Maliya, S., Liyana, A., Farhani, S., Jannah, R., Razman., M.R.

International Medical Journal Malaysia, 2016;15(2):27-36.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Transsexuals face discriminations and rejections from the Malaysian society. The number of
studies done on understanding the phenomenology, experiences, and problems faced by transsexuals is still
few in Malaysia. This research aims to document their psycho-social and spiritual backgrounds and the
relevant experiences, and to explore their perceptions and needs as male-to-female transsexuals in the
context of Persatuan Insaf Pahang, Malaysia. Materials and Methods: A qualitative research was carried out
in July and August 2015 among eight male-to-female transsexual adults in Kuantan, Pahang. Snowball
sampling was used. Participants who gave consent were interviewed in two focus groups. Data obtained was
transcribed and used as the primary data source. Results: Subjects in this study reported confusions over
their gender identity since childhood. They struggled against conflicts regarding their transsexuality in
adolescence, and eventually many quit their studies. As adults, they were discriminated against in
employment and religious settings. They provided positive feedbacks on religious authorities who could
understand problems unique to transsexuals and empathise with the transsexual community. Conclusion: The
psycho-sexual phenomenology is the same in transsexuals all over the world. Misunderstanding and
discrimination from the society remain heavy towards this community. Transsexuals should learn to adapt to
meeting expectations from the society as well, so they could be accepted in public. They will need religious
guidance and spiritual support for better quality of life. Dedicated efforts are still needed in training
professionals in the educational, medical, and religious fields to attend to the specific needs of transsexuals
in this country.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext Mak nyahs in Malaysia: does HIV/AIDS knowledge really reduce HIV-related risk behaviours?

Maliya S., Zul A.R., Irwan, M.S., Irwan M.S., Samsul D., Zakiah M.S., et al.

International Medical Journal Malaysia, 2018;17(3):29-38.
MyJurnal

Introduction. Male-to-female transgender individuals are known as mak nyahs in Malaysia. Akin to many other countries, mak nyahs face discriminations in securing proper employment, thus many end up in sex trade, exposing them to HIV-related high risk behaviours. This paper aims to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and risk behaviours in HIV/AIDS among mak nyahs in Malaysia. Method. Validated questionnaires in local language were used. Knowledge, attitude, and HIV-related risk behaviours were measured. With respondent-driven sampling method, 54 subjects participated in the survey. IBM SPSS was used for data analysis. Results. Majority of the subjects reported to have HIV-related sexual risk, although only a quarter were sex workers. Misconceptions still remained among the subjects. Inconsistent condom use was common. Adequate knowledge did result in better attitude towards HIV/AIDS. However, multiple regression analysis showed that subjects with higher knowledge in HIV/AIDS tend to have higher sexual risks (β = 0.320, p = 0.030). Conclusion. Educating the transgender community about HIV/AIDS does not seem to adequately reduce the HIV-related sexual risks. Other approaches, i.e. socio-cultural values and religious practices may be effective to instil higher levels of awareness and self-responsibility in this community to eliminate HIVrelated high risk behaviours.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Contraceptive choice and acceptability: the future for STI risk in Kelantan, Malaysia

Shiely F, Saifuddin MS

Int J STD AIDS, 2014 Mar;25(3):219-27.
PMID: 23970646 DOI: 10.1177/0956462413497699

More than 150 million women become pregnant in developing countries annually and an estimated 287,000 die from pregnancy-related causes. Contraception is vital to prevent unnecessary maternal deaths, as well as sexually transmitted infections. The objective of this study was to investigate preferred contraceptive methods and the factors that influence contraceptive choice among women in Kelantan, Malaysia. A cross-sectional study using interview-based questionnaires was conducted, during July and August 2009, in local family planning clinics in Kelantan. The questionnaire was administered to adult women (age 20-50). Prevalence of unplanned pregnancies was high (48%). Contraceptive preference was Depo contraceptive injection (32%), oral contraceptive pills (27%), intrauterine devices (15%) and contraceptive implants (12%); 9% used condoms. Only 2% used contraception to protect against sexually transmitted infections or HIV/AIDS. Younger women (OR 0.90; 95% CI 0.807-0.993) were more likely to use contraception. In conclusion, non-interrupted contraceptive methods were preferred. More than 60% would stop using contraception if it interrupted intercourse. From both a public health and infectious disease perspective, this is extremely worrying.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Patterns of risk behaviour for patients with sexually transmitted diseases and surveillance for human immunodeficiency virus in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Lye MS, Archibald C, Ghazali AA, Low BT, Teoh BH, Sinniah M, et al.

Int J STD AIDS, 1994 Mar-Apr;5(2):124-9.
PMID: 8031914 DOI: 10.1177/095646249400500209

A study was conducted to determine the feasibility of establishing a sentinel human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) surveillance system involving patients with sexually transmitted diseases attending private clinics and a government sexually transmitted disease clinic in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Information on risk behaviours for HIV infection were also collected. A total of 84 female and 91 male patients were interviewed and tested for HIV infection; 41.7% of the women reported working as prostitutes, other occupations included masseuses, hairdressers, waitresses, salesgirls, receptionists, factory workers, and others. The most common diagnosis was gonorrhoea. Other diagnoses included non-specific genital infection, pelvic inflammatory disease, genital herpes and syphilis. 58.3% of the women had a hundred or more sex partners during the previous month; 99% had 6 or more sex partners. Only 4.8% of female patients had their male partners using condoms most of the time, 11.9% hardly used condoms at all. Of the males, 93.3% were heterosexual, while 6.7% were bisexuals, 41.1% had between 6-20 different partners in the previous year. 78.0% of them had prostitutes as their sex partners most of the time. 41.8% had experiences in Thailand and the Philippines. 73.6% never used condoms, while 19.8% only used condoms rarely. Although all patients were tested negative for HIV antibodies, lot quality assurance sampling methods indicate that the upper limits of prevalences for females and males were 3.5% and 3.3% respectively, at a 5% type I error. The study has shown that it is feasible to carry out a sentinel surveillance programme among STD patients and provided useful baseline data for future comparisons.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior*
Association of co-occurring psychosocial health conditions and HIV infection among MSM in Malaysia: Implication of a syndemic effect

Ng RX, Guadamuz TE, Akbar M, Kamarulzaman A, Lim SH

Int J STD AIDS, 2020 05;31(6):568-578.
PMID: 32299293 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420913444
Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Exploring drivers of pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men in Malaysia

Eger WH, Adaralegbe A, Khati A, Azwa I, Wickersham JA, Osborne S, et al.

Int J STD AIDS, 2022 Aug;33(9):821-828.
PMID: 35772943 DOI: 10.1177/09564624221106535

BACKGROUND: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a valuable HIV prevention strategy, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM); however, PrEP uptake is below the threshold needed to curb the HIV epidemic among this group, especially in settings like Malaysia, where same-sex sexual behavior is illegal.
METHODS: A sample of 355 participants completed an online survey between June and July 2020, recruited through geosocial networking apps for MSM and social networking websites (e.g. Facebook). We used descriptive and multivariable analyses to examine correlates of PrEP use within this population.
RESULTS: The sample was predominantly Malay (53.5%), had monthly incomes greater than RM 3000 (USD 730) (52.7%), and a tertiary level of education (84.5%). About 80% of participants heard of PrEP prior to the survey, with significantly less (18.3%) having ever taken PrEP. In the adjusted multivariable logistic model, using drugs before or during sexual intercourse ("chemsex") (AOR: 3.37; 95% CI: 1.44-7.89), being diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in the last 12 months (AOR: 2.08; 95% CI: 1.13-3.85), HIV testing in the previous 6 months (AOR: 3.23; 95% CI: 1.74-5.99), and disclosure of sexual orientation (AOR: 1.85; 95% CI: 1.02-3.34) were associated with having taken PrEP in the past.
CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that PrEP use among Malaysian MSM is relatively low, despite high awareness, and is associated with healthcare engagement and high-risk behaviors. These results highlight the need to tailor outreach activities for individuals at increased risk for HIV and those disengaged with the health system.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext Migrant Women's Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services in Malaysia: A Qualitative Study

Loganathan T, Chan ZX, de Smalen AW, Pocock NS

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2020 07 26;17(15).
PMID: 32722563 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17155376

Providing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services to migrant workers is key to fulfilling sustainable developmental goals. This study aims to explore key informants' views on the provision of SRH services for migrant women in Malaysia, exploring the provision of SRH education, contraception, abortion, antenatal and delivery, as well as the management of gender-based violence. In-depth interviews of 44 stakeholders were conducted from July 2018 to July 2019. Data were thematically analysed. Migrant workers that fall pregnant are unable to work legally and are subject to deportation. Despite this, we found that insufficient SRH information and contraceptive access are provided, as these are seen to encourage promiscuity. Pregnancy, rather than sexually transmitted infection prevention, is a core concern among migrant women, the latter of which is not adequately addressed by private providers. Abortions are often seen as the only option for pregnant migrants. Unsafe abortions occur which are linked to financial constraints and cultural disapproval, despite surgical abortions being legal in Malaysia. Pregnant migrants often delay care-seeking, and this may explain poor obstetric outcomes. Although health facilities for gender-based violence are available, non-citizen women face additional barriers in terms of discrimination and scrutiny by authorities. Migrant women face extremely limited options for SRH services in Malaysia and these should be expanded.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext Sexual Inactivity in Methadone Maintenance Treatment Patients

Ramli FF, Tg Abu Bakar Sidik TMI, Naina Mohamed I

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2020 03 18;17(6).
PMID: 32197338 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17061993

Sexual dysfunction has been extensively studied in methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) patients. However, little data is available regarding sexual inactivity in the MMT patient population. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence and putative risk factors for sexual inactivity in the MMT patient population. This cross-sectional study involved 25-71 year old MMT patients recruited from six methadone clinics. Two hundred and seventy-one patients were interviewed for demographic characteristics, comorbidities, concurrent medications used, and sexual activity. The prevalence of sexual inactivity in the MMT population was found to be 47.6%. Increasing age (p < 0.01) and being single/divorced (p < 0.01) were significantly associated with sexual inactivity. In subgroup analysis, increasing age was significantly associated with sexual inactivity in both single/divorced (p < 0.05) and married (p < 0.05) subgroups, while unemployment (p < 0.05) was only significantly associated with sexual inactivity in the earlier subgroup. Our results suggest that sexual inactivity is common in the MMT patient population. The putative risk factors are related to biological and sociocultural factors. Having specific comorbidities or being on certain medications were not correlated with sexual inactivity in the MMT population. Routine assessment of sexual problems is essential, and proper management should be performed for MMT patients.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior*
Fulltext Sexual Dysfunction among Gynaecological Cancer Survivors: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study in Malaysia

Mohamad Muhit AM, Sy-Cherng Woon L, Nik Mhd Nor NS, Sidi H, Mohd Kalok AH, Kampan NC, et al.

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2022 Nov 23;19(23).
PMID: 36497627 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315545

BACKGROUND: Sexual dysfunction is a major issue among gynaecological cancer survivors. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among survivors of gynaecological cancer in Malaysia and to determine its risk factors.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted of 116 married women with gynaecological cancer who attended the gynaeoncology and oncology clinics at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (UKMMC). Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected. Sexual dysfunction was measured using the Malay Version Female Sexual Function Index (MVFSFI). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the risk factors of female sexual dysfunction.
RESULTS: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction among gynaecological cancer survivors was 60% (70 out of 116). Sexual dissatisfaction was the most prevalent domain of sexual dysfunction at 68.1%. Sexual dysfunction was significantly associated with low education levels (Primary level, AOR = 4.92, 95% CI: 1.12-21.63; secondary level, AOR = 4.06, 95% CI: 1.14-14.44). Non-Malays were significantly more likely to have sexual dysfunction compared with Malays (AOR = 3.57, 95% CI: 1.16-11.06). In terms of treatment, combinations of surgery and radiotherapy (AOR = 4.66, 95% CI: 1.01-21.47) as well as surgery and chemoradiation (AOR = 5.77, 95% CI: 1.20-27.85) were considered.
CONCLUSIONS: Gynaecological cancer survivors with lower education levels, non-Malay ethnicity, and receiving treatment combinations of surgery and radiotherapy or surgery and chemoradiation have a higher risk of sexual dysfunction. A holistic approach in managing the various sociocultural and clinical issues is required to prevent sexual dysfunction among these patients.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Female Sexual Function Index and Female Behavioral Changes: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study in Thailand

Narkkul U, Jiet Ng J, Saraluck A

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2022 Nov 23;19(23).
PMID: 36497640 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315565

Sexual health alterations are associated with disasters. Consequently, the COVID-19 pandemic may affect female sexual function. This study aimed to determine the COVID-19 pandemic effect on female sexual function and to know the risk of female sexual dysfunction. This online, cross-sectional, observational research was conducted during the pandemic period. A logistic regression model was used to investigate the associations between outcomes and potential risk factors. In total, 432 sexually active women participating in the region affected by the COVID-19 pandemic were analyzed. The overall findings of our study are that 60 percent of females were at risk for female sexual dysfunction. The average FSFI score was 21.27 ± 7.17. Comparing female sexual behavior before and during the COVID-19 pandemic reveals a significant decrease in the frequency of having sex per week, foreplay duration, and coital duration. In the multivariate analysis, the factors associated with the development of RFSD are age greater than 45 years (adjusted odds ratios (AOR) 15.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.67-62.07), body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 (AOR 3.26, 95%CI 1.23-8.67), jobs as a healthcare provider (AOR 8.45, 95%CI 3.66-19.53), previous COVID-19 infection within the previous three months (AOR 36.81, 95%CI 10.93-123.98), and screened-positive anxiety (AOR 13.07, 95%CI 4.75-35.94). COVID-19 influences female sexual behavior and may increase the risk of sexual dysfunction in women. Concern for the effects of female sexual quality of life in high-risk individuals is essential.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext Prevalence of Good Condom Usage and Its Association with Condom Use Self-Efficacy among Youth Attending HIV/STDs Clinics in Primary-Care Settings in Malaysia

Hamid NC, Malek KA, Mat-Nasir N, Mohamad M, Nasir NM

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2022 Sep 26;19(19).
PMID: 36231478 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912179

The low prevalence of condom usage among youth with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Sexually Transmitted Diseases (HIV/STDs) is a concern. Condom use self-efficacy has been identified as a significant predictor of condom usage. This cross-sectional study examines the prevalence of good condom usage and its association with condom use self-efficacy among Malaysian urban youth, aged between 18 to 24 years old attending HIV/STDs clinics in primary-care settings, Selangor. Utilising the Harmonised Malay version of Condom Use Self-Efficacy Scale (CUSES M-H) questionnaire, the data from 218 responders were analysed using univariate and multiple logistic regression. The prevalence of good condom usage was 61% (95% CI: 54%, 68%). The average mean score of condom use self-efficacy was 3.07. Condom use self-efficacy was divided into four subscales of mechanics, perceived barriers, assertiveness and intoxicants. The assertiveness subscale had the highest average mean score of 3.42, while the intoxicant subscale score had the lowest average mean score of 2.24. Good condom usage was significantly associated with condom use during first sexual intercourse (aOR = 5.81, 95% CI: 1.97, 17.14), duration diagnosis of HIV/STDs of more than 12 months (aOR = 6.40, 95% CI: 2.30, 17.86) and the high assertiveness subscale score (aOR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.36). A behavioural change campaign that targets high-risk youth in primary care settings could promote condom use self-efficacy particularly assertiveness to increase condom usage among the youth.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior
Fulltext Engagement in Chemsex among Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) in Malaysia: Prevalence and Associated Factors from an Online National Survey

Maviglia F, Wickersham JA, Azwa I, Copenhaver N, Kennedy O, Kern M, et al.

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2022 Dec 24;20(1).
PMID: 36612617 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010294

Background: Chemsex is the use of illicit drugs—particularly methamphetamine, gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL)—to enhance sexual activity. Chemsex, which occurs primarily among communities of men who have sex with men (MSM), is associated with greater HIV risk behaviors, including multiple sex partners, group sex, condomless sex, and injection drug use. Despite evidence showing chemsex engagement among Malaysian MSM, there is a paucity of research on chemsex among MSM in Malaysia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey (August to September 2021) among 870 Malaysian MSM. Participants were recruited through targeted advertisements on social networks. We collected information regarding participants’ recent (<6 months) engagement in chemsex, demographic characteristics, psychosocial factors, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) knowledge and history, and recent sexual- and drug-related behavior. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with recent (<6 months) chemsex engagement. Results: Just under 1 in 10 (9.0%) of participants reported having engaged in chemsex in the previous six months. More than two-thirds of participants (69.1%) had not disclosed their sexual orientation to anyone in their family and 35.2% reported moderate to severe depressive symptoms. Multivariable analysis found that recent injection drug use (adjusted odds ratio: aOR = 6.61; 95% confidence interval: CI, 2.30−19.03), having shared pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with someone else (aOR = 5.60; 95% CI, 1.76−17.77), higher perceived HIV risk (aOR = 3.15; 95% CI, 1.25−7.93), knowing someone using PrEP (aOR = 2.93; 95% CI, 1.62−5.31), recent engagement in transactional sex (aOR = 2.38; 95% CI, 1.06−5.39), having a recent STI diagnosis (aOR = 2.36; 95% CI, 1.25−4.44), recent engagement in anal sex (aOR = 2.21; 95% CI, 1.07−4.57), and recent sexual intercourse with an HIV-positive partner (aOR = 2.09; 95% CI, 1.07−4.08) were associated with recent engagement in chemsex. Conclusions: Malaysian MSM who practice chemsex are vulnerable to several HIV risk factors, such as transactional sex, HIV-positive sexual partners, and injection drug use. There is an urgent need for programs that integrate drug, sexual health, and mental health services, with a focus on harm reduction (e.g., condoms, access to and utilization of HIV testing and PrEP services, drug knowledge, and safer drug use) tailored for MSM who practice chemsex.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior/psychology
Fulltext Assessing the knowledge level, attitudes, risky behaviors and preventive practices on sexually transmitted diseases among university students as future healthcare providers in the central zone of Malaysia: a cross-sectional study

Folasayo AT, Oluwasegun AJ, Samsudin S, Saudi SN, Osman M, Hamat RA

Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2017 02 08;14(2).
PMID: 28208724 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14020159

This study was done to assess the knowledge, attitudes, risky behaviors and preventive practices related to sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs) among health and non-health sciences university students as future healthcare providers in Malaysia. A total of 700 health and non-health sciences university students (255 male; 445 female) aged between 17 and 30 years were surveyed by using a self-administered questionnaire. The majority (86.6%) had heard of STDs, and 50.4% knew STDs could present without symptoms. HIV remains the best known STD (83.6%) by the students, while chlamydia (26%) and trichomoniasis (21.0%) were rarely known. Gender, age group, educational level and faculty type were strongly associated with knowledge level (p-values < 0.05). Most of them (88.8%) were aware that STD screening was important while use of condoms was protective (63.8%). The majority of them strongly felt that treatment should be sought immediately if they (85.5%) and their partners (87.4%) have symptoms. Among the sexually-active students, 66.7% and 18% had sexual intercourse with multiple partners and commercial sex workers, while 17.4% and 9.4% took alcohol and drugs before having sex, respectively. By logistic regression analysis, students aged 24-30 years old (an odds ratio (AOR) = 0.57, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.377-0.859) and faculty type (AOR = 5.69, 95% CI = 4.019-8.057) were the significant predictors for the knowledge level. Knowledge on the non-HIV causes of STDs is still lacking, and the risky behavior practiced by the sexually-active students in this study is alarming. There is a need to revisit the existing STD education curriculum in both schools and universities so that appropriate intervention on STDs can be implemented.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior/statistics & numerical data*
Hypoactive sexual desire among depressed female patients treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: a comparison between escitalopram and fluoxetine

Sidi H, Asmidar D, Hod R, Jaafar NR, Guan NC

Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract, 2012 Mar;16(1):41-7.
PMID: 22122658 DOI: 10.3109/13651501.2011.617457

To determine the risk of hypoactive sexual desire (HSD) in depressed female patients treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, comparing escitalopram and fluoxetine. The associated factors were also examined.

Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior/drug effects; Sexual Behavior/ethnology; Sexual Behavior/psychology
Editorial: Cuddling: the influences of culture and sex

Hussey HH

JAMA, 1976 Jan 26;235(4):417.
PMID: 946090
Matched MeSH terms: Sexual Behavior*

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