Stockholm, 10 Feb 2025
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has released its latest Annual Epidemiological Reports on sexually transmitted infections (STIs), revealing continued increases across the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) in 2023. The findings highlight the urgent need for increased public awareness, prevention, testing, and treatment efforts to address this growing public health concern.
Considerable increases were seen in reported cases of syphilis and gonorrhoea in 2023, relative to 2022, and continues the increasing trend seen in 2022. The trends for all STIs that ECDC provides surveillance data on underscore the need for immediate action to prevent further transmission and mitigate the impact of STIs on public health.
In 2023, nearly 100 000 confirmed cases of gonorrhoea were reported in EU/EEA countries, showing a 31% increase compared to 2022 and a striking increase of more than 300% compared to 2014. This surge was observed across different age groups and demographics, including men who have sex with men (MSM), and heterosexual men and women. The highest rates among women were within the age group 20 to 24 and this is also the group with the steepest increase in 2023 (46%). For men, the highest rates were seen in the 25 to 34-year-old age group. If left untreated, gonorrhoea can lead to significant health problems, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, and infertility in both men and women.
Syphilis cases also continue to rise. In 2023, 41 051 confirmed cases were reported in 29 EU/EEA countries, representing a 13% increase compared to 2022, and a doubling compared to 2014. Syphilis is more common among men, with seven men diagnosed for every one woman. The highest rates were seen among men aged 25 to 34. The majority of syphilis cases (72%) were reported in MSM. Still, compared to 2022, rates of syphilis increased among women of all age groups. Untreated syphilis can cause long-term complications in the heart and nervous system and if a pregnant woman has untreated syphilis, the baby may suffer severe complications.
Despite a slowdown in the increase of chlamydia notifications in 2023, it remains the most frequently reported bacterial STI in Europe. In 2023, more than 230 000 cases were reported across EU/EEA countries, representing an increase of 13% since 2014. The infection continues to disproportionately affect young people, with the highest rates among women aged 20 to 24.
Aside from the rise in the number of reported cases of STIs, a particular concern is the increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in gonorrhoea. The emergence of drug-resistant strains threatens the effectiveness of current treatments, making it crucial to emphasise prevention and promote responsible antibiotic use. ECDC actively monitors AMR trends in Neisseria gonorrhoea and works with countries to strengthen surveillance and implement strategies to combat resistance.
There are several hypotheses as to why cases of STIs have increased. More testing for STIs in some populations likely accounts for some of the increase. Other possible explanations that need further study include changes in sexual risk behaviours, such as less condom use, and higher numbers of sexual partners.
ECDC emphasises the importance of proactive measures to address the rising STI rates. Using condoms consistently for vaginal, anal and oral sex is crucial for prevention. Open and honest communication about sexual health with partners can also help reduce the risk of STI transmission.
People who experience symptoms of sexually transmitted infections, including pain when urinating, discharge from the penis, vagina, or anus, or pain in the lower stomach are strongly advised to seek testing. Other symptoms include an ulcer or rash around the genital area, mouth or anus. As it is possible to have an STI and not have any symptoms, sexually active people are encouraged to get tested for STIs, especially those with new, casual or multiple sexual partners. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent further transmission and potential complications. If you suspect you may have contracted an STI, seek medical advice immediately
Read the reports
- Gonorrhoea – Annual Epidemiological Report for 2023
- Chlamydia – Annual Epidemiological Report for 2023
- Syphilis – Annual Epidemiological Report for 2023
- Congenital syphilis – Annual Epidemiological Report for 2023
- Lymphogranuloma venereum – Annual Epidemiological Report for 2023
Videos
- Video: Bacterial sexually transmitted infections – why do we see the rise?
- Video: How big of a threat are the bacterial sexually transmitted infections?
- Video: STIs in Europe – A problem hiding under the duvet
Social Media Cards
- Social media card: Know your risk
- Social media card: Let’s break the stigma!
- Social media card: Let’s work together!
Source – ECDC