22 March 2024
Recent figures from health institute Sciensano reveal a remarkable increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Belgium. This trend mirrors the worrying increase also observed at the European level. Chlamydia remains the most commonly reported STI, with a significant prevalence among women, while gonorrhoea is making a rapid rise, especially among men.
The prevalence of chlamydia among younger age groups, especially among women and men between 20 and 29 years, underlines the need for targeted education and prevention. Gonorrhoea, on the other hand, shows an alarming rise with an increase of 93 per cent in men and 145 per cent in women compared to five years ago. This indicates a growing problem that requires urgent attention.
Although the advance of syphilis is less pronounced than that of chlamydia and gonorrhoea, it remains an important health problem. Men within the age groups 30-34 and 34-39 are particularly affected. These data highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and intervention to prevent further spread.
More and better targeted testing contributes to the higher rates, but there is also evidence of changing sexual behaviour, such as less consistent condom use and more frequent partner swapping, especially after the corona pandemic. Particular focus is on men who have sex with men (MSM), where the use of PrEP against HIV may lead to reduced condom use and therefore a higher risk of other STIs.
Sensoa stresses the need for a structured and comprehensive approach to combating STIs in Belgium, similar to the current HIV plan. Through cooperation between different partners and focusing on testing, prevention and treatment, it aims to reverse the rising trend of STIs in Belgium.
Source: vrt.be - Sensoa