Using the cluster-sampling method, the authors estimated the seroprevalence of 4 sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among the sexually active general population in a city of 30,000 inhabitants in the east of Gabon. The seroprevalences were 2% for HIV-1, 13.8% for hepatitis B, 8.6% for Treponema pallidum and 59.6% for Chlamydia trachomatis. The seroprevalences of hepatitis B and chlamydia were stable over time and similar to those registered in other countries of central Africa. On the other hand, the seroprevalence of T. pallidum is notably low in comparison with these countries and seems to be decreasing. The seroprevalence of HIV-1 is also low but has doubled in 8 years in the city. Immigrant women from west Africa were a high-risk group for STDs but more generally, cohabiting was a risk factor for women.
PIP: Findings are presented from a seroprevalence survey of HIV, hepatitis B, syphilis, and chlamydia conducted in Franceville, Gabon, during 2 days in January 1996, in a representative sample of the sexually active general population aged 14-55 years. 456 usable sera were collected from 457 individuals recruited in 20 clusters of 25 people each. Franceville is a city of approximately 30,000 inhabitants. 2% were infected with HIV-1, 13.8% with hepatitis B, 8.6% with Treponema pallidum, and 59.6% with Chlamydia trachomatis. The seroprevalences of hepatitis B and chlamydia were stable over time and similar to those reported in other central African countries. However, the seroprevalence of T. pallidum is quite low relative to those other countries and appears to be decreasing. The seroprevalence of HIV-1 is also low, but twice the level observed in 1988.