Module 4: Screening and diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections

Module 4

Screening and diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections

Assignment

November 11, 2026 - Geneva

Assignment (10 marks)

Question 1 (5 marks)

1.1 Mention four benefits of point-of-care (POC) tests for sexually transmitted infections. (2)

1.2 What factors should be considered when selecting a POC STI test for use in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)? (1)

1.3 Despite the high acceptability of STI screening, why may POC testing have limited impact on population-level STI burden? (1)

1.4 List four possible barriers to POC testing for STI, especially in low- and middle-income countries. (1)

Question 2 (5 marks)

Provide a brief overview of the current approach to syphilis screening and diagnosis in your country. In your response, describe:

The populations that are routinely screened for syphilis;
The screening and diagnostic tests currently used;
The main challenges affecting access to, quality of, and uptake of syphilis testing; and
Recommendations for strengthening syphilis screening and diagnostic services in your setting.