Prevalence of factors associated with self-perception of sexual risky behaviour in adults and elderly

Abstract

Introduction: sexual risky behaviour can be defined as that which exposes the individual to the greatest probability of contracting a sexually transmitted infection. Objective: To evaluate the self-perception of sexual risky behaviour and associated factors. Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted with 1.443 adults and seniors, of both sex, users of Primary Health Care in Passo Fundo – RS, from whom sociodemographic and behaviour characteristics were analysed. Results: The prevalence of self-perceived sexual risky behaviour was 15% (IC95 13-17). In the sample, 8,8% reported having had 2 or more sexual partners in the last year, while 64,6% did not use condoms during sexual intercourse. Higher probability of self-perceived sexual risky behaviour was identified in individual’s whit basic education, in those without a spouse and who reported a multiplicity of sexual partners. Conclusion: Despite the considerable prevalence of self-perception of risky sexual behavior, it was not related to not use of condoms, reinforcing the need for constant sexual education of the adult and elderly population who use primary care, aiming at reducing exposure to sexually transmitted diseases.