The migrant population and sexually transmitted infections: scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: The World Health Organization highlights that more than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) occur daily worldwide, most of which are asymptomatic, and 374 million new infections occur each year, of which only 1 in 4 are curable. The migrant population is identified as one of the most vulnerable population groups to STI transmission. Objective: to map the available scientific evidence regarding STIs in migrant communities. Methods: to conduct a scoping review, according to the guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute, using the mnemonic PCC, with participants (P) "migrants", concept (C) "infections", and context (C) "sexually transmitted". The research question was "what is the published evidence on sexually transmitted infections in migrants". Results and Discussion: the results identified in the databases (RCAAP 3, B-On 15, MedLine 2011, PubMed 44, CINAHL Ultimate 780), in a total of 2853 studies, and included in the review 21, by applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The lack of knowledge about STIs results from a lack of clarification and sexual education. Its implementation is proposed by nurses, and other health professionals, in a cautious, humanized and welcoming way, with the correct information. This review confirms the results of previous ones, but adds important aspects related to the barriers that migrants face, particularly in health systems. Conclusions: It is recognized that migration creates a situation of greater vulnerability to STI contagion, along with attitudes related to risk beliefs and behaviours.