Evolution of the epidemiological surveillance indicators of the main sexually transmitted infections in Spain: A retrospective observational study (2011-2019)

• Published in: Midwifery Vol. 111; p. 103362
• Main Authors: Pellico-López, Amada, Ruiz-Azcona, Laura, Sánchez Movellán, Mar, Ajo Bolado, Purificación, García-Vázquez, José, Manjón Rodríguez, Jimena, Hernández-Aguado, Ildefonso, Cayón-De las Cuevas, Joaquín, Paz-Zulueta, María
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Scotland Elsevier Ltd 01-08-2022
• Subjects: Preventive health care; Public health; Sexual and reproductive health; Sexually transmitted diseases; Sexually transmitted diseases; Preventive health care; Sexual and reproductive health; Public health
• ISSN: 0266-6138; 1532-3099
• DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2022.103362

One of the most relevant aspects of sexual health promotion is the need to carry out health education by promoting a healthy affective-sexual education, with the capacity and resources to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies. The aim of this study was to collect the evolution of epidemiological surveillance indicators of the main STIs, stratified by autonomous community after the publication of the Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy in Spain in 2011 and until 2019.
A retrospective observational study of the Spanish population with STIs from 2011-2019. The study variables were indicators of the main STIs, including annual rates of notification of infections per 100,000 inhabitants.
There is a lack of homogeneous and systematic epidemiological surveillance records for STIs. Overall, in Spain there was an upward trend in STIs, except for HIV, which showed a clear decrease.
Despite existing regulations, strategies, and sex education programs in Spain, the main STIs have been increasing over the years, and Spain is one of the countries with the highest rates in Europe.
•In Spain, an increase in a number of STIs (C. Trachomatis, gonococcal infection, syphilis and LGV) has been observed since the beginning of 2010.•The evolution of the main STIs in Spain follows the same upward pattern as in Europe, and Spain is one of the countries with the highest rates.•Although HIV continues to be one of the major public health problems in the world, there has been a downward trend in most countries.•Despite the current focus on the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important not to lose sight of other public health issues such as STIs.