Sexual Abuse History, Risk Behavior, and Sexually Transmitted Diseases: The Impact of Age at Abuse

The researchers used bivariate analysis to test association among age at onset of sexual abuse, risk behaviors, and STD diagnosis (n=2,175) in an STD clinic-attending adolescent population. Relationship between sexual abuse and STD acquisition was assessed by regression analysis.

The investigators found that more females than males reported sexual abuse, at 26.75 percent and 5.4 percent respectively. Abuse at or before 10 years of age was associated with more lifetime and recent partners. The researchers found a history of abuse to be associated with higher rates of STD tests. In regression analysis, for males and females, the odds of having an STD were 2.5 times greater if abuse occurred at 10 years or younger.

"Sexual abuse at a younger age is associated with more sexual risk behaviors and is a risk factor for STDs," the authors concluded.

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