The number of STD consultations at the Sexual Health Centers (CSG) fell by 8 percent in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Women and heterosexual men in particular were tested less often, according to the latest figures from the Institute. RIVM. There was also a decline among men who have sex with men (MSM), but it was less significant.
The exact cause is unclear, but an important factor appears to be the increased cost of STD consultations. This means that the CSGs can help fewer people with the budget they receive. Priority is now given to groups at increased risk, such as people in PrEP care, MSM and people with changing sexual contacts.
Still many gonorrhea diagnoses
Although the number of consultations decreased, the detection rate of STDs remained the same. Gonorrhea in particular remains a point of attention: the percentage of consultations with a gonorrhea diagnosis is much higher than in previous years. For women this was 4.1 percent in the first half of 2024 and for heterosexual men it was 3.5 percent. For comparison: between 2015 and 2021 this was still around 2 percent.
More HIV diagnoses
In addition, the CSGs noted more new HIV diagnoses in the first half of 2024: 94, compared to 68 in the same period last year. The increase is especially visible in large cities and is partly attributed to effective information campaigns by the GGD, aimed at risk groups.
By: National Healthcare Guide / Johanne Levinsky
The Curious Case of Declining STD Consultations
Well, ladies and gentlemen, if you thought not getting tested was a brilliant strategy, the first half of 2024 has confirmed it! According to the latest figures from the Institute RIVM (which sounds suspiciously like a secret society for germophobes), there has been a spectacular 8% decrease in consultations at Sexual Health Centers (CSGs) compared to last year. And who are the usual suspects here? Women and heterosexual men might have decided to avoid the “naughty doctor” because, let’s face it, reality can be a bit of a buzzkill.
What’s the Deal? Why the Drop?
So, what’s causing this sudden retreat from medical check-ups? Experts in their white coats posit that rising costs of STD consultations are a major villain in this story. Yes, it seems that budget cuts have made it look like you need to mortgage your house to get a once-over; it’s all very “call the bank manager, I need a loan for some lube!” As a result, the Sexual Health Centers are being forced to put their money where their mouth is, prioritizing high-risk groups like those in PrEP care, MSM, and folks with an ever-changing sexual roster. Hopefully, they’ve got a good bouncer at the door—only the most eligible individuals allowed!
Still Playing Spin the Gonorrhea
Now, before we all panic at the thought of dodging doctors—rest assured that even though consultations have plummeted, the detection rate of STDs is still as steady as a rock band’s drumbeat at a 3 AM pub gig. Notably, gonorrhea is making a return, and it’s not even invited. In fact, the percentage of consultations resulting in a gonorrhea diagnosis is over 4% for women and 3.5% for heterosexual men in the first half of 2024, significantly higher than the 2% range from 2015 to 2021. So it appears that gonorrhea decided to crash the party regardless of the RSVP list.
HIV: A Not-So-Welcome Guest Reappears
But wait, there’s more! The CSGs also reported an uptick in new HIV diagnoses—94 in the first half of 2024, up from 68 last year. It’s like watching a sequel to a film you thought was done long ago, only this time, it’s set in a big city with plenty of neon lights and dramatic music. On the plus side, this increase could be partly linked to effective information campaigns by the GGD, who deserve a round of applause. They’re out there doing the hard yards, trying to keep us all informed while we’re too busy checking our last social media likes.
What’s the Takeaway, Then?
In conclusion, if you’re out there avoiding consultations like they’re the latest existential crisis binge-worthy Netflix series, remember: ignorance may be bliss, but knowledge is power, and early detection is vital! So, if you’ve been dipping your toes into the murky waters of romance, it might be time to take the plunge into a Sexual Health Center. For the love of all that is decent, keep your health priority number one—unless we’re talking about finding a good parking space. That’s a different kind of urgency altogether!
By: National Healthcare Guide / Johanne Levinsky
What factors might be contributing to the declining rates of STD consultations observed in Sexual Health Centers in 2024?
**Interview on Declining STD Consultations: A Conversation with Dr. Lisa Harrington, Public Health Expert**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Harrington. We’re looking at some surprising statistics regarding a decline in STD consultations at Sexual Health Centers (CSGs) in the first half of 2024, which dropped by 8% compared to last year. What are your initial thoughts on this trend?
**Dr. Harrington**: It’s concerning, especially given the ongoing issues with rising rates of STDs and HIV in certain populations. We know that access to testing and treatment is crucial in combating these trends. The decrease in consultations among women and heterosexual men, as well as a less significant drop in men who have sex with men (MSM), suggests that we may not be reaching everyone who needs these services.
**Editor**: You mentioned that one possible reason for the decline is the rising cost of consultations. Can you elaborate on how finances are affecting people’s decisions to get tested?
**Dr. Harrington**: Absolutely. As healthcare costs rise, people often prioritize their spending, and unfortunately, sexual health services can get sidelined, especially if someone perceives them to be a luxury rather than a necessity. With budget cuts in CSGs, they are forced to focus on high-risk populations—those in PrEP care and MSM, for example—which is a logical step but can leave others without vital services.
**Editor**: Despite the drop in consultations, we’re seeing a consistent detection rate of STDs like gonorrhea, which has increased significantly over the years. What does this indicate about the state of sexual health?
**Dr. Harrington**: It indicates a troubling disconnect between testing rates and actual transmission rates. When consultations decline but gonorrhea diagnoses remain high, it’s clear that the infection is still spreading. For women, the diagnosis rate has climbed to 4.1% and for heterosexual men to 3.5%—up from around 2% just a few years ago. This points to a potential epidemic that we are not adequately addressing through testing.
**Editor**: Additionally, there has been an increase in new HIV diagnoses, especially in urban areas. What do you think is driving this rise?
**Dr. Harrington**: The increase in new HIV diagnoses—and the fact that we’ve seen a rise from 68 to 94 cases this year—can partly be attributed to more effective outreach and education campaigns targeting at-risk groups. While these campaigns are vital, they also highlight the need for regular testing to detect and manage HIV earlier. It’s a delicate balance between reaching people with education and making sure they have accessible services where they can get tested.
**Editor**: In light of these trends, what recommendations would you have for individuals who might be hesitant to seek out testing?
**Dr. Harrington**: First and foremost, I’d encourage everyone to prioritize their sexual health and not let stigma or fear deter them from getting tested. Understanding that prevention is key and that many STDs can be effectively treated is vital. I’d also suggest looking into community resources, which may offer sliding scale fees or free testing options. Maintaining open conversations about sexual health is crucial, both with partners and healthcare providers.
**Editor**: Thank you, Dr. Harrington, for your insights. It’s clear that while the data may seem alarming, there are steps we can take to improve the situation. We appreciate your time today.
**Dr. Harrington**: Thank you for having me. It’s important that we keep discussing these issues and prioritize accessible healthcare for all.
