By Leisha Toory
As we commemorate Preventable Illness Month, it is crucial to shine a spotlight on an issue that affects individuals across the country: sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In a nation where the pursuit of health and well-being is paramount, understanding the prevalence, challenges, and preventive measures related to STIs is essential for fostering a healthier future for all Canadians.
Understanding the Landscape:
STIs represent a significant public health concern in Canada, with thousands of new cases reported each year. From common infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea to more serious conditions like HIV and syphilis, the impact of STIs reverberates throughout communities, affecting individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.
Prevalence and Trends:
Recent data from Health Canada reveals concerning trends regarding the prevalence of STIs.
In 2020, there were:
● 105,982 reported cases of chlamydia
● 30,833 reported cases of gonorrhea and
● 9,358 reported cases of infectious syphilis
Additionally, rates of gonorrhea and syphilis have been steadily increasing in recent years, with certain demographics, including young adults and men who have sex with men, being disproportionately affected.
Challenges and Barriers:
Several factors contribute to the persistent challenge of combating STIs in Canada. These include stigma and discrimination surrounding sexual health, limited access to testing and treatment in certain regions, and barriers to open communication about sexual health issues in both healthcare settings and broader societal discourse.
Preventive Measures and Interventions:
Despite the challenges, there are numerous preventive measures and interventions that individuals and communities can embrace to address the prevalence of STIs in Canada. These include:
1. Comprehensive Sex Education: Advocating for comprehensive, evidence-based sex education in schools and communities to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
2. Regular Testing and Screening: Encouraging individuals who are sexually active to undergo regular testing and screening for STIs, especially those at higher risk based on their sexual behaviors and demographics.
3. Access to Healthcare Services: Ensuring equitable access to healthcare services, including STI testing, treatment, and counseling, particularly in underserved and marginalized communities.
4. Promotion of Condom Use: Promoting the consistent and correct use of condoms as a highly effective method of preventing the transmission of STIs during sexual activity.
5. Community Outreach and Support: Fostering supportive and non-judgmental environments where individuals feel comfortable seeking information, testing, and treatment for STIs, including initiatives targeted at vulnerable populations.
As we navigate the landscape of Preventable Illness Month, it is imperative to acknowledge and address the reality of STIs in the country. By raising awareness, advocating for preventive measures, and fostering supportive environments for individuals affected by STIs, we can work together to mitigate the impact of these infections and promote a future where sexual health is prioritized, and preventable illnesses are minimized for all Canadians.
Sources:
Public Health Agency of Canada. (2020). Chlamydia, gonorrhea, infectious syphilis in Canada, 2020: Infographic. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/chlamydia-gonorrhea-infectious-syphilis-canada-2020-infographic.html
Leisha Toory is the founder of the Period Priority Project, the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Director with the Young Canadians Roundtable on Health, and an Honors in Political Science undergraduate at the University of Ottawa.