Here’s how the number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has increased in recent years.

Cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia, continue to rise in Spain. This is detailed in the latest report on the epidemiological surveillance of these infections, prepared by the National Center of Epidemiology (CNE) and CIBER for Infectious Diseases of the Carlos III Institute of Public Health.

• The 2023 data report says the increase has been particularly pronounced over the past four years, even though sexually transmitted infections have continued to rise for more than 20 years—except for the year of the pandemic.

What is an STI. These are infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites, transmitted primarily during unprotected sexual intercourse, be it vaginal, anal or oral. In most cases, they should not have any symptoms.

• Although the terms STI and STD (sexually transmitted disease) may be synonymous, health care providers use the term “infection” instead of “disease” because a person with the infection may have no symptoms but still need treatment. Once symptoms appear, it is called an STD, such as gonorrhea, syphilis or HIV, according to Health.

• If left untreated, an STI can develop into a chronic disease.

Evolution in recent years. The upward trend in the incidence of gonorrhea and syphilis, observed since the early 2000s, continues. The report also talks about chlamydia because there is evidence.

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The reason for this increase. As we inform you on Newtral.es from experts in the field of infections and sexology, social factors play a role in this increase in the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections, such as the fact that condoms are used less and less or that the age of condoms has advanced. . the beginning of relationships, but also of epidemiological surveillance: citizens go to be tested for STIs more often, and records become more accurate.

Sources

Report on epidemiological surveillance of sexually transmitted infections in Spain, 2023.