In the Vitebsk region, a steady decrease in the incidence of STIs is being observed.

15 February, Vitebsk /Olga Bogacheva - BELTA/. A stable decrease in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is being observed in the Vitebsk region. This was reported to a BELTA correspondent by Viktor Spiridonov, chief physician of the Vitebsk Regional Clinical Dermatovenerological Dispensary. Over the past five years, the incidence of syphilis has decreased by 73%, gonorrhea by 56%, trichomoniasis by 39%, and chlamydia by 60%. "This is the result of extensive work carried out by the entire dermatovenerological service of the region in conjunction with other interested medical and non-medical departments," emphasized Viktor Spiridonov. A robust laboratory base has been established at the dispensary for the early detection, treatment, and prevention of STIs. To ensure the accessibility of specialized care and to change the negative attitude of the population towards the treatment of venereal diseases, anonymous examination and treatment rooms for STIs have been opened at all dispensaries and many district dermatological offices. In the past year alone, over 13,000 people sought assistance there, with 5.6 thousand of them diagnosed with various diseases.

Viktor Spiridonov noted at the same time that along with the general decrease in the incidence of STIs in recent years, its level remains quite high: about 15 thousand patients with sexually transmitted infections are registered annually in the region (5 years ago - 20 thousand). The indifferent, in fact negligent attitude of young people towards the use of contraceptives to protect their health also causes concern among dermatovenerologists. A survey of young people conducted in Vitebsk's nightlife establishments showed that 16% of respondents rate their knowledge of STI prevention highly, and 82% rate it as satisfactory. At the same time, only 18% of the survey participants always use a condom during sexual contact, 71% use it sometimes, and 11% never use it. "It is possible to change this attitude only by using the most popular sources of information among young people - the Internet, mass media, and acquaintances," the doctor believes. To leverage the latter opportunity, healthcare professionals and activists of public organizations, according to Viktor Spiridonov, should more widely involve volunteers from among young people who have undergone preliminary training, who can then competently convey useful information to their friends and acquaintances (training based on the "peer education" principle).

BELTA