Socio-cultural influences upon knowledge of sexually transmitted infections: a qualitative study with heterosexual middle-aged adults in Scotland

Dalrymple, J., Booth, J., Flowers, P. , Hinchliff, S. and Lorimer, K. (2016) Socio-cultural influences upon knowledge of sexually transmitted infections: a qualitative study with heterosexual middle-aged adults in Scotland. Reproductive Health Matters, 24(48), pp. 34-42. (doi: 10.1016/j.rhm.2016.10.003) (PMID:28024675)

Abstract

There has been a recent global increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV among adults aged over 45. Limited evidence exists regarding middle-aged adults’ knowledge of STIs other than HIV. This qualitative study sought to understand middle-aged adults’ knowledge of STIs within a socio-cultural context. Individual interviews, based on a life-course approach, were conducted with 31 recently sexually active heterosexual men and women. Participants were aged between 45 and 65 and of mixed relationship status (14 were single, 17 in a relationship). Thematic analysis identified four key findings, including: “engagement with STI-related knowledge”; “general knowledge of STIs”; “learning about STIs from children”; and “limited application of knowledge”. The findings allow insight into a neglected area, and indicate that socio-cultural factors influence middle-aged adults’ STI-related knowledge acquisition throughout the life course. These are important implications for the prevention of STIs, particularly in addressing the on-going stigmatisation of STIs in older age groups.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This study was funded by a Glasgow Caledonian University PhD studentship. JD was released from her post as sexual health nurse at NHS Greater Glas- gow and Clyde Sandyford sexual health service. JB, KL and PF are funded by Glasgow Caledonian Uni- versity. SH is funded by Sheffield University. Thanks go to the men and women who took part in inter- views and to council and NHS staff who assisted with recruitment. This paper was drawn from JD’s doctoral research thesis.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Flowers, Professor Paul
• Authors: Dalrymple, J., Booth, J., Flowers, P., Hinchliff, S., and Lorimer, K.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
• Journal Name: Reproductive Health Matters
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis
• ISSN: 0968-8080
• ISSN (Online): 1460-9576
• Published Online: 27 November 2016