STIs rapidly on the rise in Europe as urgent warning issued

07 March 2024 , 14:19

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Cases of gonorrhoea have risen by nearly half ( (Image: Getty)

Sexually transmitted infections are rapidly on the rise across Europe, and experts say that urgent attention is needed.

Cases of gonorrhoea have risen by nearly half (48 per cent) and syphilis by more than a third (34 per cent) since 2021. The research, published in the journal Eurosurveillance, found that in 2022 the number of reported STI cases had significantly increased since the previous year, with chlamydia also up by 16 per cent.

Cases of lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) and congenital syphilis (caused by transmission from mother to foetus) had also substantially increased. The team from the European Centre For Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) note that their findings highlight an urgent need for action to prevent further spread of these conditions.

While STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis, are treatable, they can still lead to serious health complications if left untreated. These include, amongst others, pelvic inflammatory disease or chronic pain. Additionally, chlamydia and gonorrhoea can lead to infertility while syphilis can cause neurological and cardiovascular issues.

The researchers recommend that people get tested for STIs, especially if they are with a new or multiple partners, in order to detect the conditions early on. Other tips from the ECDC include practicing safe sex with condoms and fostering open communication around STIs with sexual partners to reduce the stigma.

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ECDC Director Dr Andrea Ammon said: "Addressing the substantial increases in STI cases demands urgent attention and concerted efforts. Testing, treatment and prevention lie at the heart of any long-term strategy. We must prioritise sexual health education, expand access to testing and treatment services, and combat the stigma associated with STIs.

"Education and awareness initiatives are vital in empowering individuals to make informed choices about their sexual health. Promoting consistent condom use and fostering open dialogue about STIs can help reduce transmission rates."

Isobel Williams