Data should reflect us: According to the Spain Report 2023 Epidemiological Surveillance of Infections and Sexually Transmitted Diseases, published by the Carlos III Health Institute, following the trends of recent years, Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) They did not stop growing in Spain last year. We are not facing a trivial problem, since STIs are a important public health problemBoth because of its magnitude and its complications and consequences if not diagnosed and treated early. STIs directly affect sexual and reproductive health, causing infertility, cancer and pregnancy complications, and increasing the risk of contracting HIV.
The report data shows an upward trend Syphilis, congenital syphilis, gonococcal infection (gonorrhea), chlamydia (Chlamydia trachomatis), and lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) In the last two decades. Specifically, last year alone, 36,983 cases of chlamydia were diagnosed, 20.7% more than two years ago, 34,401 gonorrhea, which increased by 42.6%, and 10,879 syphilis, 24.1% more. Furthermore, males predominated over females in all infections, as 80% of gonorrhea cases occurred in males, 88% of syphilis, 98% of LGV, and 53% of chlamydia.
With this information in mind, we wanted to talk to an expert about this growth Dr. Marina GonzalezGinemed Bilbao is the head of the assisted reproduction clinic.
What are the reasons why the number of STI patients has not stopped increasing?
The reason why the incidence of STIs has increased in recent years responds to several factors, one of which we should highlight. Change in sexual habitsEspecially among the younger population, where multiple sexual partners are common.
In addition, there is a General laxity regarding condom usewhich is the only contraceptive method that can prevent STI transmission. The decline in the number of HIV cases means that the population has lost the fear of infection, leading to less awareness of the risks of not only HIV, but other infections.
And though Condoms remain the main means of protection against STIs For Spaniards, the results of the XII Control Barometer also reveal a drop in its use in the past year, especially among GenX adults (adults aged 41 to 58), whose drop stands at 24 percentage points compared to the previous year. It is the youngest (18-26 years old) who always or almost always use condoms the most (67%); Above adults between 27 and 41 years (55%) and seniors between 42 and 58 years (38%).
Moreover, it is worth noting that more than half of those who use condoms (58%) confirm that they do so to prevent an unwanted pregnancy, which means that even among Spaniards who are more aware of their use. Effectiveness of contraception prevails On barrier methods against sexually transmitted infections or STIs.
Which is the most common, which has grown the most?
In terms of prevalence, genital herpes, human papillomavirus and chlamydia infections are currently the most common, although there has been an increase in other STIs that have virtually disappeared in our environment, such as gonorrhea and syphilis.
If an STI is not treated properly, it can lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility due to fallopian tube involvement, and even cervical cancer.
© Getty ImagesWhat symptoms can make us suspect that we have an STI?
As for Symptoms are very varied and often silent, which favors the risk of infection. Genital warts, abnormal odor or colored discharge, genital pain or itching, abnormal bleeding…especially if there has been unprotected sex, that is, without any inhibitions, even if the couple has no suspicions. Men have fewer symptoms than women, and sometimes symptoms appear some time after infection.
Do you think that we can say that they are already a public health problem?
They should be considered a public health problem, since many people, especially women, may develop any of these infections throughout their lives. Furthermore, it is a problem that is growing, with cases increasing in recent years despite prevention campaigns launched by the Ministry of Health. It is important Raise awareness of risk So that there is adequate resistance.
What are the main complications?
If an STI is not treated properly, it can lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility due to fallopian tube involvement, and even cervical cancer. In men, they have been associated with complications such as penile or rectal genital cancer, infertility, or prostatitis.
It is also important to maintain cervical cancer screening as it has been done for years.
Is early diagnosis essential for STIs?
Early diagnosis is important, but it Prevention is more important. That is, we must go to a specialist if we have any symptoms or we believe there is a risk of infection, for example, if our partner presents symptoms or is diagnosed. This is also important Maintaining cervical cancer screening As has been done for years.
However, we should not overwhelm health services at the expense of neglecting prevention, because early diagnosis is better, especially when it comes to asymptomatic infections. Avoid contagion. Condom use is an effective prevention method and we must be able to raise awareness in society that its use is necessary to prevent STIs, even if we use other contraceptive methods.
What is the protocol if an STI diagnosis is confirmed?
There is no single protocol, as it will depend on the diagnosis. Should be indicated with the treatment of choice Antibiotics or antivirals And study sexual partners or partners and re-influence methods to avoid further transmission. Subsequent follow-ups are variable depending on the infection and how it develops.
