Recent data reveals a concerning trend in England and Wales, with a surge in gonorrhoea diagnoses across almost every council area. The rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has put a strain on sexual health services, leading to unprecedented increases in demand.
The figures, based on an analysis of data from the office for health disparities by the Local Government Association (LGA), show that the rate of gonorrhoea diagnosis has increased in 97% of council areas since 2017. Additionally, 71% have seen an uptick in syphilis cases over the same period. Notably, the largest increases in gonorrhoea diagnoses were observed in Wigan, Dorset, Somerset, Devon, and Torbay, while Middlesbrough, the Isle of Wight, Darlington, and Redcar and Cleveland saw significant spikes in syphilis cases.
The surge in STI diagnoses is attributed to increased testing, but also to government cuts to sexual health services. The high diagnosis rates may also indicate a high number of infections among individuals who have not been tested.
According to David Fothergill, the chair of the LGA’s community wellbeing board, the data underscores the challenges faced by local sexual health services in coping with the surge in demand. He emphasized the importance of investment in sexual health services to prevent long-term illness and unwanted pregnancies, thereby reducing pressure on the NHS and improving community health.
The statistics for 2022 are particularly alarming, with the number of syphilis cases in England reaching 8,700, the highest figure since 1948. The gonorrhoea diagnosis rate for England also rose significantly from 80.6 per 100,000 people in 2017 to 146.1 per 100,000 people in 2022.
The LGA’s analysis further revealed that the public health grant received by councils had been reduced by £880m in real terms over the past decade, limiting their ability to spend on STI testing and treatment. As a response, the LGA has urged the government to increase funding for these services by publishing the next public health grant allocations for councils.
The rise in STIs, particularly among people aged 15-24, has prompted the parliamentary women and equalities committee to hold an evidence session. Prof Chris Whitty, the chief medical officer for England, and other experts will provide insights into the challenges faced by sexual health service users and the impact of tendering processes on access to care.
The concerning trend in STI diagnoses underscores the urgent need for increased investment in sexual health services to address the growing demand and ensure timely access to expert care.
2024-01-20 01:00:52
Link from www.theguardian.com