ANALYSING RETROSPECTIVE DATA: AGE AND GENDER DISPARITIES IN HSV-2 INFECTION PREVALENCE AMONGST PATIENTS IN KWAZULU-NATAL.

Abstract

Background Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is a significant global public health concern, contributing to a substantial disease burden. Understanding the prevalence of HSV-2 infections and potential gender disparities is crucial for developing effective prevention and control strategies. This study compares the prevalence of HSV-2 infections between men and women aged 15-49 years. Methods This retrospective study analyzed data from 182 patients, both men and women aged 15-49 years, who tested positive for HSV-2. The data were sourced from the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital laboratory database. Descriptive statistics calculated prevalence rates, and chi-square tests determined significant gender differences. The age groups were divided into five-year intervals to assess prevalence variations across different stages of adulthood. Results The analysis revealed notable differences in infection rates between genders. Among females, HSV-2 prevalence ranged from 4.9% in the 15-19 age group to 20.3% in the 20-24 age group, displaying a significant increase during early adulthood. The rates stabilized around 10.4% for ages 25-34, increased to 12.6% for ages 35-39, declined to 8.2% for ages 40-44, and further decreased to 3.6% for ages 45-49. In contrast, among males, HSV-2 prevalence started at 3.3% for ages 15-19, decreased to 2.7% for ages 20-24, steadily increased to 6.6% for ages 30-34, and slightly declined but remained relatively high at 4.4% for ages 35-39, 3.8% for ages 40-44, and 2.7% for ages 45-49. Conclusion The study demonstrates a substantial gender disparity in HSV-2 infection rates among individuals aged 15-49 years, with a significantly higher prevalence observed in females. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and public health strategies to address the higher burden of HSV-2 infections in women. Recommendations Targeted public health strategies and education campaigns should focus more on women, particularly in early adulthood, to reduce HSV-2 transmission rates.