Experts Urge Focus on Rising STI Rates Among Older Europeans

The rising incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among older Europeans has sparked calls for increased awareness and education regarding sexual health in later life. Contrary to the prevailing belief that STIs primarily affect younger populations, recent data indicates a significant uptick in diagnoses among individuals aged 65 and older across various European countries.

A report from the United Kingdom Health Security Agency highlights this trend, revealing that in 2023, there were 1,649 diagnoses of gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis among older Britons, a striking increase from 576 in 2014. This nearly threefold rise underscores a growing public health concern. In France, the incidence of gonorrhoea and syphilis among those over 50 has also surged, outpacing rates seen in younger adults from 2021 to 2023. Similarly, in Denmark, men aged 50 and above experienced significant increases in gonorrhoea cases between 2022 and 2023.

The implications of these statistics are profound. Across the European Union, individuals aged 45 and older accounted for 32 percent of all syphilis cases in 2023. Infections such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis are bacterial STIs treatable with antibiotics, contrasting with lifelong viral infections like herpes and HIV, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Understanding the Surge in STI Diagnoses

The reasons behind the rising STI rates among older adults remain complex and multifaceted. A study from the University of Manchester predicts that STI diagnoses among older populations in England will continue to rise through at least 2040. Although researchers have not pinpointed the exact causes, factors such as longevity, changing relationship dynamics, and increased treatment options may contribute to this trend.

As women generally outlive men, they may seek new partners later in life. The availability of sexual performance medications, like Viagra, has encouraged some older men to re-engage in sexual activity. Furthermore, a lack of awareness about STI transmission and prevention among older adults has been noted, particularly since they no longer face the risk of unintended pregnancies. A small study indicated that many in this demographic lack essential knowledge about safe sexual practices.

Addressing the Stigma Surrounding Older Adults’ Sexual Health

Experts emphasize the need for both health care professionals and the public to recognize the sexual health needs of older adults. Matthew Smith, a professor focused on older adults’ health at Texas A&M University, highlights the misconceptions surrounding aging and sexuality. “There is a common misconception that older adults do not have sex, they don’t want to have sex, or they cannot have sex,” Smith stated. These misconceptions can hinder communication about sexual health, resulting in fewer discussions with health providers and partners regarding safer sex practices.

Smith advocates for older adults to openly discuss their sexual history and STI testing with potential partners, noting that such conversations are not routine in this age group. He urges health care providers to engage in discussions about sexual health with their patients, insisting that “we are sexual beings across the life course.”

There is a pressing need to destigmatize STIs among older adults to foster healthier conversations about sexual health. Addressing these issues can lead to improved awareness, prevention, and treatment strategies, ultimately enhancing the well-being of an ageing population. As the stigma surrounding older adults and sexual health persists, education becomes critical in promoting safer practices and reducing the burden of STIs in later life.