Syphilis rates in men surging across Europe with 50% increase in UK, France and Germany

STD syphilis — Syphilis is an STD affecting an increasing number of Europeans iStock

Syphilis rates are on the rise in Europe, particularly among men, scientists have warned. A European report reveals that between 2005 and 2014, a total of 208 134 cases of syphilis were reported in the 29 countries monitored by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

In some European countries, including the UK, France and Germany, there was more than a 50% increase in syphilis cases between 2010 and 2014.

In 2014 alone, the data suggests that the number of cases diagnosed reached 24 541 in 2014. The rate of syphilis now stands at 5.1 per 100,000 population.

However, the annual epidemiological report published by the ECDC points out there are great variations between population groups and countries.

The highest rate was, for example, observed in Malta (11.5 per 100,000 population), followed by Lithuania (8.7), Iceland (7.7) and Spain (7.7).

MSM and older adults

Other figures indicate that men are the most affected by the sexually-transmitted disease − men who have sex with men (MSM) in particular. Reported syphilis rates were six times higher in men than in women. MSM accounted for almost two-thirds (63%) of the syphilis cases, with information on the transmission category described in the report.

The authors also noted important differences depending on age. The majority of syphilis cases were indeed reported in people older than 25. Younger people between 15 and 24 years of age represented only 13% of cases. In contrast, the largest increase in syphilis cases was found in people older than 45 − the proportion of cases among this age group has risen from 18% to 30% over the past decade.

How do we reverse this trend?

Analysing these numbers, the ECDC says the increase in syphilis rates is driven by infections among MSM and probably linked to changes in sexual behaviour in this group.

The fact that this group is better monitored and detected − for example through regular syphilis testing of HIV-positive men − suggests the rise in numbers observed can also be explained by improved case reporting, rather than by a multiplication of syphilis cases.

Among the report's recommendations are the promotion of safe sexual behaviour and an increase in testing rates among vulnerable groups, such as MSM. This can be achieved by targeted prevention campaigns to prevent new cases and through earlier diagnosis to reduce the risk of complications at the later stages of syphilis.

What is syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). People get the bacteria by having sex with someone who is infected.

Major symptoms include: painless little ulcers on the reproductive organs, around the anus or even near the mouth, red rashes on the hands and feet, and small skin growths around the vulva for women and anus for men and women. People may also experience symptoms that are not specific to syphilis, such as fatigue, joint pains, fever or swollen glands. However, some people with syphilis may be asymptomatic (show no symptoms).

While it can easily be cured with antibiotics, it can cause important problems if it is not treated. Without treatment, the infection can spread to the brain and nervous system causing serious, long-term neurological problems and severe conditions such as meningitis, strokes, dementia-like symptoms, numbness and vision problems.

To avoid infection, practising safe sex is necessary. This includes using condoms during vaginal, oral and anal sex, or even a dental dam during oral sex. The NHS also recommends to avoid sharing sex toys or at least wash and cover them with a condom before each use.