STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are diseases that can be transmitted by unprotected sex. Not everyone with an STI will have signs and symptoms of the condition. If a person does present with symptoms, these may include increased discharge, pain or ulcers. If the STIs are left undetected and untreated they may result in serious complications in later years. The role of the HPA is to contribute to protecting the population from infection through routine surveillance, modelling, epidemiological investigation and research.
Recent Updates
15 July 2008:Sexually transmitted infections diagnosed in GUM clinics in 2007
18 July 2008:HPR Vol 2: No.29 (PDF)
SNAHC pilot- Surveillance of Newly Acquired Hepatitis C in men who have sex with men
Annual STIs dataSTI data tables and slide sets are updated on an annual basis. They show information on the five main STIs and other STIs in the UK, by sex, age-group, and geographical distribution. |
|
ChlamydiaGenital Chlamydia trachomatis is the most commonly diagnosed STI in the United Kingdom. Highest rates are seen in mainly young people aged under 25 years. |
|
Genital HerpesGenital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is the most common ulcerative sexually transmitted disease in the UK. Symptoms can start with mild soreness and groups of small painful blisters appearing on the genitals and surrounding areas. Further episodes of these symptoms can occur from time to time as recurrent episodes. |
|
HPV - Genital WartsThere are many (over 100) types of Human papillomavirus (HPV), around 40 of which are sexually acquired and can infect the genital tract. Certain genital HPV infections can cause cervical cancer, other cancers and genital warts. |
|
GonorrhoeaNeisseria gonorrhoea is the second most common bacterial STI in the United Kingdom. Young people are most commonly infected, with current rates highest in males aged 20-24 years and females aged 16-19 years. |
|
SyphilisSyphilis is caused by a bacterial spirochete Treponema pallidum subspecies pallidum. Syphilis can be transmitted between partners during sexual intercourse and from an infected pregnant woman across the placenta to a developing baby. |
|
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a specific type of Chlamydia trachomatis (serovars L1, L2, and L3). LGV is highly prevalent in parts of Africa, Asia, and South America but has been rare in Western Europe for many decades. |
|
GUM Waiting times auditThe results of the 48 hour waiting times audits carried out by the HPA from May 2004 to August 2007 are presented. The project is now managed by the Department of Health. All content here can be conisdered archive material. |