As we approach the December 1World AIDS Day, Sciensano has published a worrying report on the increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Belgium since 2020. Faced with this worrying trend, the health service of the municipality of Courcelles organized a prevention and awareness morning.
Among STIs, la chlamydia remains the most frequent, with 218 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023i.e. an increase of 8 % compared to 2022. Historically majority among women, this infection is experiencing an increase progression in menwith an increase of 41 % in two years.
The gonorrheaposter 147 diagnostics pour 100 000 habitantsi.e. an increase of 42%.
As for the syphilisit became the most tested STI in 2023, with more than 25%. Men remain the most affected, representing seven times more cases than womenaccording to Sciensano.
This trend can be explained by several factors: an increase in sexual partners, a relaxation in the use of condomsbut also an increase in screenings.
Preventing STIs: an important action in Courcelles
In Courcelles, the health service organized a morning of prevention against STIs, with fun and educational activities. The campaign slogan, “Without a condom, you’re not my friend!”aims to make an impression.
“At the start, there is always a little apprehension, comments Axel Hirsoux, in charge of the health service in Courcelles. But once we present the objective of our action, which is to provide prevention, people become more attentive We try to convey the message in a fun way and encourage regular screening. It is essential to inform citizens. Even if I am not a doctor, my role in prevention is important.
“We have prepared activities like a paper casserole containing questions about HIV,” explains Estelle Marchand, social worker and facilitator at Family Planning in Courcelles. “We also have a wheel, like a wheel of luck, which directs people to questions on STIs.”
HIV: still the most worrying STI
Although a downward trend has been observed in recent years regarding HIV transmission, the disease remains the most common STI in Belgiumwith 665 new diagnoses in 2023.
World AIDS Day, December 1allows each year to show support to those affected. THE red ribbona universal symbol of solidarity, remains at the heart of awareness campaigns.
Many actions in Charleroi
In the Charleroi region, several awareness events will be held throughout the weekend. A downtown shopping center will host a screening mini-busoffering a quick and anonymous solution to get tested.
In addition, condoms and red ribbons will be distributed at the Christmas Market to reach an even wider audience.
