Work

Sexually transmitted infections of sexual crime suspects

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: This study investigates the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among individuals suspected of rape in the Helsinki metropolitan area, focusing on the immediate aftermath of the alleged incidents. METHODS: A retrospective observational analysis was conducted using data from 472 forensic examinations performed at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) between 2020 and 2024. Biological samples were tested for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. The mean interval between the alleged incident and sample collection was calculated to assess the temporal relationship. RESULTS: Of the 456 individuals tested, 108 (23.68 %) exhibited STI-related findings, with 54 (11.84 %) deemed probably contagious. Prevalence rates were 6.92 % for chlamydia, 1.11 % for gonorrhea, 2.64 % for contagious hepatitis B, and 2.57 % for active hepatitis C. HIV was detected in 1.10 % of individuals, with none deemed contagious. Fewer than 5 syphilis cases were deemed to be contagious. The mean interval between the alleged incident and sample collection was 1.04 days. CONCLUSION: This study provides an examination of STI prevalence among suspects of rape, offering insights into transmission risks immediately following alleged incidents. The findings underscore the importance of routine STI screening in forensic examinations and highlight the potential for such data to inform public health interventions and forensic practices.

Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine

DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2026.103081

Author: Aaro Mäkelä

Institution: Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare

Language: English

Topic: Reproductive tract infections research

Subfield: Microbiology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,870