Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise across Europe, with gonorrhea and syphilis cases reaching record highs, according to the latest data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
The 2023 report reveals nearly 100,000 new gonorrhea cases, a sharp increase from 74,000 in 2022, marking a fourfold surge compared to a decade ago. Syphilis cases also rose by 13%, exceeding 40,000 reported infections. Chlamydia remains the most frequently diagnosed STI, particularly among people aged 20-24, though its prevalence appears to be declining for reasons still unknown.
Gonorrhea cases are most common among women aged 20-24 and men aged 25-34, with over half of all infections reported among men who have sex with men (MSM). Experts suggest that risky sexual behaviors, facilitated by dating apps and “chem sex,” may be fueling the increase.
Healthcare professionals stress the importance of condom use and open discussions to combat stigma surrounding STIs. Genetic sequencing is underway to better understand infection patterns, but experts emphasize that behavioral changes and policy interventions are crucial to reversing the trend.
While researchers continue investigating the reasons behind these shifts, they urge sexually active individuals to prioritize safer sex practices and regular testing. Experts suggest that sexually active individuals should continue using condoms to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Europe. However, they also suggest a more open conversation about sex and destigmatization of STIs.
Mojca Matičič, head of an outpatient STI service at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia, believes risky sexual behavior may be driving a rise in infections. She points to “chem sex” and cellphone dating apps as creating environments that make casual encounters easier and heighten the risk of STI transmission.
