Europe has seen a worrying spike in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) said on Thursday, reported Xinhua.
The ECDC said that this development, detailed in its latest Annual Epidemiological Reports, is "troubling."
In 2022, the number of gonorrhea cases was up 48 percent from the previous year, syphilis cases by 34 percent and chlamydia cases by 16 percent.
Across 28 countries in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA), nearly 71,000 cases of gonorrhea were reported, a notification rate of 17.9 cases per 100,000 people, the highest rate since European surveillance of sexually transmitted infections began in 2009.
The number of syphilis cases increased to nearly 35,400 in 2022, corresponding to a notification rate of 8.5 cases per 100,000 people across 29 reporting EU/EEA countries, the ECDC said in its report.
Around 216,500 cases of chlamydia, or a notification rate of 88 per 100,000 people, were reported in 29 EU/EEA countries, the ECDC said.
The highest number of cases of gonorrhea, syphilis and chlamydia was reported in individuals younger than 35 years old. Additionally, men, in general, tend to have higher reported rates of gonorrhea and syphilis compared to women.
The report also said that men who have sex with men (MSM) are more likely to be diagnosed with STIs, as MSM account for 74 percent of syphilis cases and 60 percent of gonorrhea cases reported in 2022.
Also, the number of chlamydia cases in MSM increased by 72 percent between 2018 and 2022, the ECDC said.
ECDC Director Andrea Ammon said she is deeply concerned over the surging rates of STIs, calling for a long-term strategy based on testing, treatment, and prevention.
"Promoting consistent condom use and fostering open dialogue about sexually transmitted infections can help reduce transmission rates," Ammon said.
Source: www.dailyfinland.fi
Isn’t there a need for more comprehensive sex education programs to address this alarming increase in STIs across Europe?
Definitely, EmilyJohnson. More comprehensive sex education programs are crucial to tackling the rising numbers of STIs in Europe. Education plays a vital role in prevention and awareness among the population, especially targeting at-risk groups. It’s essential to promote safe sexual practices and encourage regular testing to combat this concerning trend.
What measures are being taken to address the increase in STIs in Europe? Are there any specific groups that are being targeted for prevention efforts?
Hi Emily1990, regarding your questions about the measures being taken to address the rise in STIs in Europe, various health authorities and organizations are ramping up awareness campaigns, promoting safe sex practices, and enhancing access to testing and treatment services. Specific groups being targeted for prevention efforts typically include young adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, and communities with higher prevalence rates.
It’s alarming to see the surge in STIs across Europe. The data from the ECDC’s report is definitely concerning. It’s important for everyone to prioritize safe sex practices and regular screenings to curb the spread of these infections.
As a healthcare professional, it’s concerning to see the significant rise in STIs across Europe. The statistics show a worrying trend, especially among the younger population. It’s crucial for public health efforts to focus on education, prevention, and access to testing and treatment to address this alarming issue.
It’s concerning to see such a significant increase in STI cases in Europe. The statistics clearly show the urgent need for improved education and access to sexual healthcare services for all individuals. Let’s work towards creating a safer and healthier environment for everyone.
As a public health professional, it’s disheartening to see such a concerning rise in STIs across Europe. It’s crucial for comprehensive prevention strategies to be implemented urgently to address this alarming trend and protect the population’s sexual health.
What measures are being taken to address this concerning surge in STIs in Europe?
To address the surge in STIs in Europe, health authorities are implementing comprehensive education campaigns, promoting safe sex practices, and providing accessible testing and treatment services. It’s crucial for individuals to prioritize their sexual health and engage in open conversations about prevention and testing. Collaboration between healthcare providers, communities, and policymakers is key to tackling this public health issue effectively.