Quick testing for sexually transmitted infections and factors related to the promotion of elderly health

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the search for the elderly to perform a quick testing. Method: A descriptive, quantitative, documentary study conducted with seniors who entered the Center for Quick Testing and Counseling, from June to August 2014, and analyzed in the form of percentages. Results: The demand for quick testing by the elderly is still incipient, since that, from the 1.314 members attending the service in the period analyzed, only 28 (2%) were more than 60 years old. Regarding the use of condoms in sexual relations, 21 (75%) aged not done with any partners. Among men there were identified 1 (4%) case of syphilis and 1 (4%) case of hepatitis B; among women, 1 (4%) case of hepatitis C. Conclusion: the expansion of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the elderly may be linked to a gap in prevention efforts related to this age group, being it a challenge to the current policies of public health.