Low rates of testing for sexually transmitted infections (STI) among pregnant women in Zambia and Uganda may be putting their lives at risk, according to a study conducted by the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) and reported by PlusNews. The study found that most pregnant women were tested for HIV, but not for other STIs. High coinfection rates increase the risk of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. Some STIs, such as syphilis, are a major cause of morbidity and mortality among women and children in developing countries. EGPAF found that integrating STI testing would be possible and cost-effective and it would help prevent MTCT.  

To read the PlusNews article, click here.