Gonorrhoea and syphilis on the rise as STI diagnoses soar among gay and bisexual men

However, the total number of new STI cases in England has decreased

Electron micrograph of the bacterium responsible for Gonorrhea, of which there has been a 32% increase in diagnoses among gay men (Rex)

Large increases in diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were seen last year in men who have sex with men (MSM), according to figures published today.

High levels of condomless sex probably accounted for most of the rise, although better detection of gonorrhoea may have contributed, said a report by Public Health England.

The total number of new cases of STIs diagnosed in England decreased by 0.3% compared with 2013 - 439,243 as opposed to 440,707.

Of the new cases, the most commonly diagnosed were chlamydia (47%), genital warts (first episode) (16%), gonorrhoea (8%) and genital herpes (first episode) (7%).

Blue = Male/Red = Female (Public Health England)

Between 2013 and 2014, there was an increase in diagnoses of infectious syphilis (33% - 3,236 to 4,317) and gonorrhoea (19% - 29,419 to 34,958). During the same period, diagnoses of non-specific genital infection fell by 5%, consistent with the decline reported since 2012.

The report says the impact of STIs remains greatest in young heterosexuals under the age of 25 and in men who have sex with men.

Large increases in STI diagnoses were seen in MSM, including a 46% increase in syphilis and a 32% increase in gonorrhoea.

Recommendations include that sexually active under-25-year-old men and women should be screened for chlamydia every year, and on change of sexual partner.

MSM should have a full HIV and STI screen at least annually, or every three months if having condomless sex with new or casual partners.

Black African men and women should have a regular full HIV and STI screen if having condomless sex with new or casual partners, the report says.

Press Association