Experts Urge Awareness of Rising STIs Among Older Europeans

The rising incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among older adults in Europe has prompted experts to call for greater awareness of sexual health in later life. Recent reports indicate a significant increase in diagnoses of conditions such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis among those aged 50 and above, highlighting a trend that health care professionals and the public need to address.

According to a 2024 report from the United Kingdom’s Health Security Agency, there were 1,649 diagnoses of gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis among individuals aged 65 and older in 2023, a substantial rise from 576 cases in 2014. This nearly threefold increase raises concerns about the sexual health education available to older populations.

In France, data from the French public health agency reveals that the incidence of gonorrhoea and syphilis in people over 50 surged more sharply than in younger adults between 2021 and 2023. Additionally, men over 50 reported increased cases of chlamydia. Similar trends have been observed in Denmark, where men aged 50 and above experienced some of the largest increases in gonorrhea cases from 2022 to 2023. Across the European Union, individuals aged 45 and older constituted 32 percent of all syphilis cases in 2023.

Experts attribute the rise in STIs among older adults to several factors. A study from the University of Manchester predicts that the number of STI diagnoses among older individuals in England will continue to increase through at least 2040. While the exact causes remain unclear, the study highlights that an aging population, coupled with growing treatment costs, will likely present challenges in the coming years.

Changing social dynamics may also play a role. As women often outlive men, they may seek new partners later in life. Additionally, the availability of sexual performance medications, such as Viagra, has enabled some older men to engage in sexual activity, thus contributing to a rise in STIs. The lack of knowledge about STI transmission and prevention methods among older adults further exacerbates the issue. A small study indicated that this demographic may be less aware of safe sex practices, especially since they are generally not concerned about unintended pregnancies.

Recognizing the need for destigmatization, health professionals and the public must prioritize the sexual health needs of older adults. Matthew Smith, a professor at Texas A&M University specializing in older adults’ health, emphasizes that misconceptions surrounding the sexual activity of older people can lead to a lack of communication. “There is a common misconception that older adults do not have sex, they don’t want to have sex, or they cannot have sex,” he stated. This stigma can hinder conversations with healthcare providers and partners about safer sex practices, such as using condoms and discussing sexual histories.

Smith encourages older adults—whether widowed, divorced, or seeking companionship—to discuss their sexual health openly. In his view, these conversations should include inquiries about potential partners’ sexual histories, contraception use, and STI testing. “It’s something that oftentimes is shied away from, in conversation,” he noted, indicating that addressing sexual health is essential at all life stages.

Healthcare providers also have a crucial role to play. Smith argues that doctors should routinely discuss sexual health with their patients, as sexual well-being persists throughout the life course. Engaging in these conversations can help mitigate the stigma surrounding sexual health in older age groups, ultimately fostering a more informed and healthier society.

As Europe faces a rising tide of STIs among older populations, the call for enhanced awareness and education on sexual health has never been more urgent. Addressing the sexual health needs of older adults not only promotes individual well-being but also contributes to public health initiatives aimed at reducing the spread of STIs.