HIV and its cousins

A few months ago, one of our local radio stations carried the headline that the HIV/AIDS figures for St Vincent and the Grenadines were alarming. The Ministry of Health official said that, compared to the same period last year, the difference in figures is of major concern and requires urgent action if we are to fulfill the global target of Getting to Zero.{{more}}

Although HIV/AIDS are of major concern, many other sexually transmitted infections are not given serious consideration by individuals, because they are not as life-threatening as HIV. Sexually transmitted infections are passed from one person to another through unprotected sex or genital contact. These sexually transmitted infections increase one’s risk of getting HIV and vice versa. These infections can have long-term and significant impact on health.

Gonorrhoea or ‘claps,’ as we call it, is a bacterial STI that is easily passed on during sex. About 50 per cent of women and 10 per cent of men don’t experience any symptoms and are unaware that they are infected. This can cause pain, burning sensation when urinating and a yellow-green vaginal or penile discharge. Gonorrhea is easily treated with antibiotics, but can lead to serious long-term health problems if left untreated.

Syphilis is a bacterial STI that in the early stages causes a painless sore on your genitals or around the mouth. This sore is highly infectious. Other signs and symptoms include rash and flu-like illness. Syphilis can progress and cause heart problems, paralysis and blindness. This can also be treated and the complications of the later stages can be avoided.

Clamydia is a very common STI and is easily passed on during sex. Most people do not experience any symptoms and are unaware that they are infected. Clamydia can cause pain or a burning sensation when urinating, a white cloudy vaginal or penile discharge and abdominal pain during and after sex. The infection can be easily treated with antibiotics, but can lead to serious long-term health problems if left untreated.

The list of STIs goes on and on and include other infections, such as genital warts, genital herpes and trichomoniasis.

Although lots of attention is given to HIV/AIDS, it is important that there is still awareness about these other STIs, as they can go undetected and can spread easily during sexual contact. Most times, these are not tested for, as people are more concerned about HIV/AIDS. These STIs can have dire consequences on an individual’s health.

We all care about protecting ourselves and the ones we love. For sexually active people that means practising safer sex. By doing so we can reduce our risk of getting STIs. Safer sex is the responsibility of all of us. We must be responsible people who care about our health and the health of our partners.

Get tested today and know your status!

Dr Rosmond Adams is a medical doctor and a public health specialist. He may be emailed at adamsrosmond@gmail.com