Daijiworld Media Network - London

London, Mar 31: A new pilot study conducted in South East England has found that repeated rectal swab sampling and linked data collection for sexually transmitted enteric infection (STEI) research is both feasible and acceptable among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) attending sexual health services.

The prospective cohort study recruited 193 participants aged 16 and above from two sexual health clinics between May and October 2022. Participants were asked to provide a baseline rectal swab, optional stool sample, and complete an online questionnaire, followed by weekly follow-ups over 12 weeks.

According to findings, half of the participants provided a baseline rectal swab, while 34% completed all scheduled swabs. A majority also agreed to data linkage with routine clinical and demographic records, which researchers said proved highly effective.

The study also included participant interviews, which indicated that many were motivated by contributing to public health research and found the process manageable and flexible. However, challenges were noted in completing follow-up questionnaires, with some participants citing confusion over instructions and variable effectiveness of SMS reminders.

Researchers concluded that longitudinal sampling methods in this setting are practical and could help improve understanding of STEI transmission patterns over time, supporting future public health strategies and infection control measures.