This study was done to explore the distribution of sexual minority groups and their association with high-risk sexual behaviors and symptoms of STIs among Chinese college students.
An internet-based questionnaire was applied, and a sample of 17 966 surveys from 130 Chinese colleges was collected. Participants were classified into the following groups: homosexual male or female, heterosexual, bisexual, and sexual orientation unknown. High-risk sexual behaviors were having sexual intercourse before the age of 18 years, having one’s sexual debut with a non-regular partner, having had more than four sexual partners before the investigation, and having mostly had sexual intercourse without using condoms.
Homosexual males were more likely to have their sexual debut with a non-regular partner, having more than four sexual partners, having their sexual debut before the age of 18 years, and not using condoms for most episodes of sexual intercourse. Similar associations also existed among homosexual females. A positive association between sexual orientation and having symptoms of STIs was found among homosexual males.
The study concluded through its findings that the sexual minority groups among Chinese college students had a greater risk of engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors and having STI symptoms. Future studies and interventions should focus on this population.
Reference: https://srh.bmj.com/content/45/4/255
