Spain reports slowdown in sexually transmitted infections

Data from the National Epidemiology Center (CNE) and the Carlos III Health Institute (ISCII) indicate that the decade-long surge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Spain began to slow in 2025. While infection rates remain high, the rapid upward trend observed in recent years has stabilized or, in some instances, slightly declined.

Specific findings show a slight decrease in syphilis and lymphogranuloma venereum, with the latter seeing a 10% drop to 1,824 cases. Gonorrhea rates have stabilized, with 37,467 reported infections. Chlamydia remains the exception, continuing to rise at a more moderate rate of 4%, reaching 44,511 cases. HIV rates were not included in this specific report, as they are tracked independently and have remained stable for several years.

Experts suggest that prevention efforts—including targeted campaigns for vulnerable populations, condom promotion, and improved professional training—alongside better diagnostic tools like self-sampling kits, may have contributed to this deceleration. Additionally, increased detection through PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) programs, which involve regular screening for other STIs, may have played a role in the recorded data.