It has been recorded that there has been a considerable increase in some sexually transmitted diseases in Cyprus in the last five years.
Figures from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), reveal an increase in three out of five sexually transmitted diseases .
According to reports, 31 syphilis cases were detected per 100,ooo people in 2019 and that this number reached 95 in 2023.
Furthermore, while there were two gonorrhea cases in Cyprus in 2019, this number increased to 25 in 2023.
There was one chlamydia case in Cyprus in 2019 and that this had increased to 63 in 2023.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have been on the rise across Europe.
Recent data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) highlights significant increases in cases of syphilis and gonorrhea.
In 2023, there were nearly 100,000 confirmed cases of gonorrhea in Europe, a 31% increase compared to 2022. Syphilis cases also saw a 13% increase in the same period.
The rise in STIs can be attributed to several factors, including changes in sexual behaviors, such as decreased condom use, and increased testing and awareness. The ECDC emphasizes the urgent need for public awareness, prevention, testing, and treatment efforts to address this growing public health concern.