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BMC Women's Health

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Open Access 01-12-2019 | Human Immunodeficiency Virus | Debate

Differential sexual network connectivity offers a parsimonious explanation for population-level variations in the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis: a data-driven, model-supported hypothesis

Authors: Chris R. Kenyon, Wim Delva, Rebecca M. Brotman

Published in: BMC Women's Health | Issue 1/2019

Abstract

Background

The prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vaginal microbiota types varies dramatically between different populations around the world. Understanding what underpins these differences is important, as high-diversity microbiotas associated with BV are implicated in adverse pregnancy outcomes and enhanced susceptibility to and transmission of sexually transmitted infections.

Main text

We hypothesize that these variations in the vaginal microbiota can, in part, be explained by variations in the connectivity of sexual networks. We argue: 1) Couple-level data suggest that BV-associated bacteria can be sexually transmitted and hence high sexual network connectivity would be expected to promote the spread of BV-associated bacteria. Epidemiological studies have found positive associations between indicators of network connectivity and the prevalence of BV; 2) The relationship between BV prevalence and STI incidence/prevalence can be parsimoniously explained by differential network connectivity; 3) Studies from other mammals are generally supportive of the association between network connectivity and high-diversity vaginal microbiota.

Conclusion

To test this hypothesis, we propose a combination of empirical and simulation-based study designs.

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Title: Differential sexual network connectivity offers a parsimonious explanation for population-level variations in the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis: a data-driven, model-supported hypothesis
Authors: Chris R. Kenyon
Wim Delva
Rebecca M. Brotman
Publication date: 01-12-2019
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keyword: Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Published in: BMC Women's Health / Issue 1/2019
Electronic ISSN: 1472-6874
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-018-0703-0

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Differential sexual network connectivity offers a parsimonious explanation for population-level variations in the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis: a data-driven, model-supported hypothesis

Abstract

Background

Main text

Conclusion

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Main text

Conclusion

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