Prevalence of unprotected sexual activity in the Brazilian population and associated factors: National Health Survey, 2019

Abstract

Objective: To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with unprotected sexual activity in the Brazilian population. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 61.523 adults aged 18 years or older, participating in the 2019 National Health Survey. The prevalence of unprotected sexual activity in the last year was estimated. The association of socioeconomic and demographic variables with the outcome was analyzed using Poisson regression, with estimation of prevalence ratios (PR) and 95%CI. Results: The prevalence of unprotected sexual activity was 76.9% (95%CI 76.3;77.6), being higher in all regions compared to the North region, rural residents (PR=1.04 – 95%CI 1.03;1.06), female participants (PR=1.06 – 95%CI 1.05;1.08), participants aged 60 years or older (PR=1,33 – 95%CI 1,27;1,38), married (PR=1.25 – 95%CI 1.23;1.27), and less educated (PR=1.05 – 95%CI 1.03;1.06). Conclusion: Strategies aimed at groups with a higher prevalence of unprotected sexual activity are necessary.