Vulnerability associated with sexually transmitted infections in physically disabled people

Objective: to analyze the conditions that enhance the dimensions of individual, social and programmatic vulnerability associated with sexually transmitted infections in physically disabled people. Methods: this transversal study, with a quantitative approach, was conducted in 2015 in conjunction with an association for disabled people in Campina Grande, PB, Brazil. Ninety-eight individuals participated in the study and answered a questionnaire regarding the dimensions of vulnerability in relation to sexually transmitted infections. The chi-square test, Fisher's test, contingency coefficient test and prevalence ratio test were all performed. Results: an association was identified between the occurrence of sexually transmitted infections with the number of partners (p = 0.020); the belief that having few partners was a form of prevention (p = 0.044); the belief that poor hygiene was a risk factor; age (p = 0.007); the type of disability (p = 0.007); and having a consultation with a urologist (p = 0.030). Conclusion: physically disabled people have conditions that enhance their vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections, which are linked to individual, social and programmatic dimensions. By characterizing the conditions of vulnerability it is possible to devise specific prevention linked to the reality of the social and health conditions of individuals.