Sexual Health and STIs in the North American Arctic
Author Information
Author(s): Law Dionne Gesink, Rink Elizabeth, Mulvad Gert, Koch Anders
Primary Institution: University of Toronto
Hypothesis
The study aims to describe the basic epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections for Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of North America.
Conclusion
STI rates in the Arctic are significantly higher than those in southern regions, particularly among young women.
Supporting Evidence
- Alaska reported high rates of chlamydial infection at 715 cases per 100,000 population.
- Northern Canada reported 1,693 cases of chlamydial infection per 100,000.
- Greenland reported the highest rates of chlamydial infection at 5,543 cases per 100,000.
- Gonorrhea rates in Greenland were 1,738 cases per 100,000, the highest in the Arctic.
Takeaway
People in the Arctic have a lot more sexually transmitted infections than those in warmer places, especially young women.
Methodology
Data on chlamydial infection and gonorrhea rates were collected from various federal and state reports, and standardized by age and sex to the year 2000 US population.
Potential Biases
Cultural norms and taboos may hinder accurate reporting and partner notification regarding STIs.
Limitations
The study may not capture all cases due to asymptomatic infections and barriers to healthcare access in remote communities.
Participant Demographics
The study focuses on Arctic communities, which include a large proportion of Native American, First Nation, Metis, Inuit, and other aboriginal peoples.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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