EPIDEMIOLOGY OF URETHRAL STRICTURE AT TYGERBERG-HOSPITAL

Over a 12-month period, 120 consecutive male patients with confirmed u rethral stricture were prospectively studied with regard to the epidem iology of the disease. Specific urethritis is the main aetiological fa ctor (45%) and internal and external trauma account for an alarming 38 ,3% of cases. The prevalence is highest among 40 - 50-year-old coloure d men who have had little schooling, multiple sexual partners and who have a low annual income. The incidence can be reduced by upliftment o f moral and educational standards of the local population, and by emph asising the potential dangers of catheterisation and instrumentation t o medical personnel.