Attention, taboo subject! Exhibition via alarming increase in venereal diseases

Attention, taboo subject! Exhibition via alarming increase in venereal diseases

In the fool tower, the exhibition "Safe Sex" is currently presented, which turns to a long taboo topic: STDs. These have declined worldwide for years, but now an alarming increase has been recorded. According to the Report of the Kleine Zeitung , the number of gonorrhö cases has increased by 300 percent since 2014, which corresponds to almost 100,000 infections in 2023. The syphilis numbers have also doubled with over 40,000 cases in the EU and EEA states since 2014.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are about a million new sexually transmitted infections (STI) every day in Europe. The aim of the exhibition is to speak openly about the topic and to address school classes in particular to do information. The presentation includes historical moulages and current photos of clinical pictures such as syphilis, gonorrhea, HPV, herpes and HIV.

taboo and stigmatization

A central goal of the exhibition is the topic of tabooing and stigmatizing infected. Historically, in the 19th century there were anecdotes about baking beards that signaled health, while infected people often suffered from hair loss. This stigmatization still has an impact on dealing with STI. General practitioners Horst Schalk reports on current cases in his practice in Vienna and attributes the increase in venereal diseases to changed sexual behavior.

In search of clarification, prevention is of considerable importance, since many STIs are associated with lengthy medication and side effects. Some venereal diseases, such as HIV, are not curable, but their spread can be checked by effective treatment options. Early detection of the infections is recommended to avoid complications. The Federal Ministry of Health emphasizes that every person can come into contact with StI can.

symptoms and treatment

The symptoms of a STI can be very diverse, from unusual discharge to pain and itching. However, there are often no signs of illness, which makes an early medical examination all the more important. According to the Helios Health , those affected should definitely consult a doctor if suspected of a STI. Possible contact points are gynecological, urological or dermatological practices. The partner should also be examined, since many STIs run without symptoms but are still contagious.

The statutory health insurance companies usually cover the costs for the examination in the event of symptoms or suspicion of infection. It is important to inform the treating doctors about all complaints and sexual behavior in order to be able to carry out targeted tests.

In order to meet the challenges of venereal diseases, Andrea Brunner from AIDS Hilfe Vienna demands a comprehensive strategy for sexual health in Austria, which includes improved data collection and educational work.

Overall, the exhibition "Safe Sex" not only illustrates the urgency of the problem, but also the need for an open discussion about sexual health to effectively combat future climbs from StIn.