STI Study
Recent study conducted by the Southern African HIV Clinicians Society:
Title: Study on guidelines uptake, acceptability of a new oral product, and patient pathway in South Africa regarding the sexually transmitted infections Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis
Background
The World Health Organization (WHO) released updated sexually transmitted infection (STI) guidelines in 2021 and 2024, but the extent of their adoption into national guidelines and implementation across different health sectors remains unclear. This study examined STI treatment guideline alignment, clinical practice, and acceptability in South Africa, focusing on Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), and explored preferences for a novel oral antibiotic for NG.
Study design
A mixed methods study was conducted using desk review of guidelines, an online survey of healthcare workers (HCWs), review of patient files across public and private facilities in three provinces, and qualitative interviews and focus group discussions with stakeholders, HCWs, and patients.
Study aims
Study duration
12 months
Study results
The Southern African HIV Clinicians Society successfully completed this research project in October 2025. The study results will follow in due course.
Title: Study on guidelines uptake, acceptability of a new oral product, and patient pathway in South Africa regarding the sexually transmitted infections Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis
Background
The World Health Organization (WHO) released updated sexually transmitted infection (STI) guidelines in 2021 and 2024, but the extent of their adoption into national guidelines and implementation across different health sectors remains unclear. This study examined STI treatment guideline alignment, clinical practice, and acceptability in South Africa, focusing on Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), and explored preferences for a novel oral antibiotic for NG.
Study design
A mixed methods study was conducted using desk review of guidelines, an online survey of healthcare workers (HCWs), review of patient files across public and private facilities in three provinces, and qualitative interviews and focus group discussions with stakeholders, HCWs, and patients.
Study aims
- To assess guideline implementation and the perceived barriers to guideline adherence among healthcare providers in light of new treatments to be included in the guidelines.
- To explore preferences regarding administration oral versus injectable treatment among different groups.
Study duration
12 months
Study results
The Southern African HIV Clinicians Society successfully completed this research project in October 2025. The study results will follow in due course.