The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 1 million new sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are recorded daily worldwide, with the actual number likely much higher. In Poland, more than 5,000 cases of syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea were reported in 2023. These infections, which often co-occur due to similar transmission routes, significantly increase the risk of contracting HIV.
Global and Local Trends in STI Infections
WHO estimates that over 30 types of bacteria, viruses, and parasites are transmitted through sexual contact. In 2020 alone, 374 million new cases of four curable STIs were recorded globally among people aged 15–49:
- Chlamydia: 129 million cases
- Gonorrhea: 82 million cases
- Syphilis: 7 million cases
- Trichomoniasis: 156 million cases
“In Poland, since 2020, there has been a noticeable increase in both STIs like syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, and HIV infections. Previously, there were around 1,000 new HIV cases annually, but in the past two years, this figure has risen significantly, now exceeding 2,500,” says Dr. Marta Niedźwiedzka-Stadnik from the National Institute of Public Health (NIZP-PZH).
The number of new STI diagnoses in Poland has surged in recent years:
- Syphilis cases increased from 703 in 2020 to 2,986 in 2023, a 325% rise.
- Chlamydia infections rose from 169 to 977.
- Gonorrhea cases grew from 246 to 1,322.
These infections can elevate the risk of HIV transmission up to tenfold, particularly for syphilis and gonorrhea. HIV cases in Poland jumped from 915 in 2020 to 2,876 in 2023.
Impact of Migration on STI and HIV Statistics
The increase in reported infections is partially linked to the influx of non-Polish nationals. “Many of these cases involve individuals newly registered in Poland, rather than newly infected,” explains Dr. Niedźwiedzka-Stadnik.
A 2022 NIZP-PZH report highlights a rise in HIV cases among foreigners in Poland, from 23 cases in 2015 to 210 in 2021, with approximately 80% involving individuals from Ukraine. UNAIDS estimates that HIV prevalence in Ukraine is ten times higher than in Poland’s general population. In 2023, 270 new HIV cases were confirmed among foreigners in Poland.
STI and HIV Diagnoses: Age and Gender Trends
Most STI cases in Poland are diagnosed in individuals aged 20–39, predominantly men, though infections among women are rising:
- Syphilis cases in women increased from 147 in 2020 to 357 in 2023.
- Gonorrhea cases rose from 16 to 98.
- Chlamydia infections grew from 123 to 364.
“This increase might reflect heightened awareness and more frequent testing, though it could also indicate a genuine rise in new infections,” says Dr. Niedźwiedzka-Stadnik.
Late Diagnoses and Social Stigma
While treatable, STIs can lead to severe health complications, including infertility, neurological issues, cardiovascular problems, and a heightened risk of HIV. Late diagnosis remains a significant challenge in Poland, with many infections going undetected due to a lack of symptoms or awareness.
According to the Polish AIDS Center, the true number of infections may be several times higher than reported. Social stigma and stereotypes, such as associating these diseases solely with sex workers or homosexual behavior, further deter individuals from seeking testing and treatment.
The Need for Comprehensive Sexual Health Services
“Sexual health is an intimate and sensitive aspect of life. It’s vital to establish spaces with specialists who are comfortable discussing sexual health and behaviors, as well as addressing medical issues through testing, consultation, and treatment,” explains Izabela Pazdan from the Social AIDS Committee and Chmielna Express Clinic.
Efforts to improve STI and HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services are essential for addressing these rising infection rates and mitigating their broader health impacts.
