Threefold increase in sexual infections

HALF of the country’s health regions have shown a high increase in the number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), according to figures just released.

Overall, three times as many STIs (9,982) were reported in 2006 compared to 2005 (3,365), prompting concern from professionals working to promote sexual health who say that more investment is urgently needed in prevention and education.

The rise in STIs in 2006 compared to 2005 was at 56% in the north-east, 55% in the south-east, 44% in the midlands and 31% in the north-west. Meanwhile, there was an increase of 0.5% in the east and falls of 6% and 2% in the numbers reported in the south and west, respectively. No figures are available for the mid-west.

The Sexually Transmitted Infections 2006 report said that while large increases have occurred in some regions, it can be difficult to draw conclusions because of the varying levels of services. Some areas previously had little reporting of STIs.

Dublin Aids Alliance executive director Mary O’Shea said the rise in STIs was of “major concern” and emphasised the need for reinvestment in education and prevention programmes, in addition to screening facilities.

“Initiatives are dependent on government commitment to put HIV and sexual health on the political agenda,” she said, expressing concern at the rise of STIs among the younger population.

“We welcome the forthcoming publication of the report of the Government sub-committee on education and prevention of the National AIDS Strategy Committee and hope that reinvestment in education will be targeted.”

Irish AIDS day takes place on June 15 and the most recent figures on HIV show an 11% increase in the first six months of 2007 compared to 2006.

“With new figures from the new Health Protection Surveillance Centre due next week, we hope that this worrying trend won’t continue,” said Ms O’Shea.

The Dublin AIDS Alliance (DAA) has called for a National Sexual Health Strategy, to be modelled on the National Drugs Strategy, as well as expansion of primary healthcare services and the extension of the Relationship and Sexuality Education programme into the senior cycle of secondary school.

The DAA also said yesterday that the recent VAT cut on condoms from 21% to 13.5% was not enough.

“VAT should be fully removed from condoms. The promotion of sexual health is vital as HIV and STI can be prevented among vulnerable groups,” said Mary O’Shea.