2024-07-17 09:15:10
We know: condoms and regular screening are the best ways to avoid sexually transmitted infection (STI) or even HIV. However, over the past several years, the number of people diagnosed “positive” for one infection or another has been increasing.
In its latest report, the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported in March 2024 that there was an increase in cases of gonorrhea, syphilis and chlamydia, demanding that Europeans pay more attention. A warning that clearly does not exist.
A disturbing study of the risky behavior of the French people
According to a Harris Interactive survey conducted in France on behalf of Gilead Sciences, a company dedicated to the fight against HIV, there is still a bright future ahead of them in terms of risky behavior in terms of STIs. In fact, among those surveyed, more than half (53%) said they had not protected themselves during recent intercourse with a new partner. In 2020, as part of a similar study, the figure was 49%, proof that there is a growing imbalance in condom use.
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Among those who preferred to give up the condom, we find different excuses:
45% of respondents indicate that they trust their partner
30% of respondents do not have comfortable condoms
28% of respondents lacked foresight and did not have a condom.
Worrying figures, especially with this factor: only 46% of those under 26 know that they have free access to free condoms, because they are 100% covered by social security, without a prescription. “For people aged 26 and over, these contraceptives are reimbursed at 60% on prescription from a doctor or midwife,” states the Foundation’s website.Health Insurance.
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Similarly, the number of screenings is still not in line with the expectations of the health authorities. According to a study by Harris Interactive, 32% of French people say that they have not benefited from systematic screening in case of unprotected sex with a new partner. A figure that even rises to 44% among 15-34 year olds.
To make things easier, from September 1, 2024, screening for hepatitis B, syphilis, chlamydia infection and gonorrhea will be 100% reimbursed by Health Insurance for those under the age of 26, without a prescription, as already in the case of HIV. Already available in CEGIDDs, these displays will now be available in all analytical laboratories.
As a reminder, in recent years, cases of gonorrhea have increased by 48%, syphilis by 34% and chlamydia by 16%. However, if left untreated, these diseases can spread like wildfire and cause many health and fertility problems.
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