Exploring the Microbial Diversity of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia, Amongst Men who Have Sex with Men (MSM) was the subject of a doctoral thesis by Dr Kehinde Mofolorunsho who graduated from UKZN with a PhD in Medicine.
Mofolorunsho was supervised by Professor Nathlee Abbai, a senior lecturer of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases at Salem University in Nigeria, who said MSM were more likely to engage in high-risk sexual behaviours, including unprotected anal sex and group sex, which increase the likelihood of transmitting and acquiring STIs, significantly increasing the risk of contracting and transmitting HIV.
Mofolorunsho said the MSM population contained a substantial proportion of new HIV infections globally, and because sexual networks were not confined to any one population, MSM may engage in sexual relations with both men and women creating a potential bridge for STI transmission between MSM and the heterosexual population. He said reducing the burden of STIs in MSM was essential to curbing the broader public health challenges in any community.
‘Gonorrhoea and chlamydia are among the most common STIs worldwide, constituting a major public health problem, and the incidence and prevalence of these infections are widespread, particularly in resource-poor countries due to the lack of access to healthcare facilities and ineffective diagnostic methods,’ he said.
‘Infections caused by these pathogens,’ Mofolorunsho said, ‘significantly increase the risk of HIV transmission, particularly in MSM, and what was concerning is that most MSM are asymptomatic, engaging in high-risk sexual behaviours, and having become an understudied group at greater risk for STI infections globally.
Mofolorunsho said while the study did not claim to be the first, it focussed on the association between microbial diversity and STI presence, along with its comprehensive use of meta-analysis and cross-sectional laboratory-based research, demonstrating its significance in expanding understanding of these infections in MSM.
The study provided baseline data for future research in South Africa, particularly in addressing the gaps in MSM-specific STI and microbiome studies. Findings from Mofolorunsho’s study benefits society by addressing the unique healthcare challenges of MSM which will not only improve their well-being, but will also have a ripple effect, benefiting the health of the society as a whole.
‘My decision to go into this particular area of research was because MSM are a largely hidden population, disproportionately affected by sexually transmitted infections,’ he said. ‘They are often subjected to significant stigma and are criminalised in many sub-Saharan African countries. Although South Africa has progressive laws supporting gay rights, social stigma and homophobia persist. These barriers can impact their willingness to seek healthcare and STI testing, potentially resulting in emerging STI threats and antimicrobial resistance.’
‘Completing my PhD has been a deeply fulfilling accomplishment, one that represents years of hard work and perseverance. I feel a great sense of pride and gratitude for the support I received along the way, particularly from my supervisor and my family. This achievement has strengthened my passion for research and reaffirmed my commitment to making meaningful contributions in the field of biomedical sciences.’
Mofolorunsho intends to advance his research, particularly in areas that have the potential to impact public health and improve patient outcomes. ‘I also look forward to mentoring others in their academic journeys and collaborating on projects that drive innovation in science and healthcare.’
He said growing up around medical professionals deeply influenced his early aspirations and fostered a strong desire to contribute to solving health challenges. He thanked his supportive family and said his UKZN experience was both enriching and transformative.
He enjoys travelling, sports and reading in his spare time.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Supplied