STDs reach new maximums in Europe

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Europe is becoming a hotbed of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), according to a new report. The number of cases of syphilis and gonorrhea increased in 2023, while chlamydia remained the most common STIs and antibiotic resistant gonorrhea is an emerging threat, According to the latest annual report of the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). In 2023, there were almost 100,000 cases of gonorrhea in the European UnionIceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.

This represents an year -on -year increase and more than 300% compared to 2014, according to the report. Syphilis cases also increased. In 2023 there were more than 40,000 cases, 13% more than in 2022 and double that in 2014. If not, gonorrhea can cause serious health problems, such as infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease. Uncreated syphilis can cause long -term complications In the heart and nervous system, according to the ECDC, and can be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her baby.

Although the increase in cases of chlamydia It seems to have stabilized, it is still the most common bacterial ITS in Europe, with more than 230,000 cases in 2023, 13% more than in 2014.

Why the increase in sexually transmitted infections?

According to the ECDC, the increase in Sexually transmitted infections It may be due to several reasons, such as a greater number of evidence in certain groups, a lower use of condom and a greater number of sexual partners. According to the agency, “the results show the urgent need to increase public awareness, prevention, evidence and treatment to deal with this growing public health problem. “

The authorities also gave the alarm about the risk of Antimicrobial resistance (RAM), when bacteria or other pathogens evolve to the point that antibiotics can no longer treat them effectively, in gonorrhea. The agency had already warned that Gonorrhea was increasingly difficult to treat with antibiotics in what reflects a worldwide trend. “The appearance of pharmacor resistant strains threatens the effectiveness of current treatments, so it is crucial to emphasize prevention and Promote responsible use of antibiotics“The ECDC declared.

Last year, the agency warned to that the “amazing” increase in cases constituted a serious public health problem for Europe. But trends in 2023 suggest that efforts to deal with ITS have not been enough to stop their spread, especially among young people. According to the report, twenty -two -year -old women registered the higher rates of chlamydia and gonorrhea In 2023, although gonorrhea cases increased in all age groups and sexual orientations. Meanwhile, men aged 25 to 34 had the highest rate of syphilis. Most cases of syphilis were registered among homosexual men and bisexuals, but the rate also increased among women of all age groups in 2023.

The agency urged the regular use of condom and “open and honest communication” with sexual partners, and said that sexually active people should regularly have ITS tests because infected people do not always have symptoms. “Early detection and treatment are essential To prevent new transmissions and possible complications, “said the ECDC.