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FRIMED-Klinisk medisin og folkehelse

Structure and dynamics of sexual networks: Implications for the spread of sexually transmitted infections

Tildelt: kr 2,2 mill.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a serious and increasing problem in the world with severe personal and public health consequences. In Norway the Chlamydia incidence is high and increasing among young adults, primarily transmitted through hetero sexual contact. Mathematical modelling and statistical analysis are powerful quantitative tools for studying transmission patterns, forecasting and interventions of STIs. The present project aims to integrate the use of theoretical methods into public he alth policy planning in Norway. The project will be hosted at the University of Oslo and the Norwegian National Institute of Public Health (NIPH), and will involve collaboration with leading mathematical epidemiologists in London and Stockholm. Norway hol ds an exclusive and extensive data material on sexual behaviour, both in the population and within STI clinical settings. We will analyse the data with emphasis on the distribution of sex partners among men and women. Also, we will study network growths b y comparing the numbers of sexual contacts in different time intervals, e.g. the recent 5,3, and 1 year. The findings from these studies will be used to construct network models with realistic partner numbers, which will be employed to explore transmissio n patterns and impact of different intervention strategies. NIPH is currently planning a trial study with use of home-sampling of Chlamydia test kits. We will develop an individual-based model of sexual contact networks with age structure to study Chlamy dia spread and intervention strategy. The modelling studies will support decision making to reduce the spread of chlamydial infection.

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FRIMED-Klinisk medisin og folkehelse

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