Greece has recorded an alarming resurgence in the cases of syphilis, reaching 65% between 2020 and 2022, according to a study carried out by Andreas Syggros Hospital, published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

Speaking to the Greek radio station Praktoreio FM, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Venereology at Andreas Syggros Hospital and Vice President of the Hellenic Society of Dermatology and Venereology, Electra Nicolaidou, said the uptick is not limited to Greece but other European countries.

The professor clarifies that this increase does not concern all sexually transmitted diseases.

Trying to explain the surge in cases of syphilis, Nicolaidou says syphilis and gonorrhea never truly disappeared. “They had become less common, but unfortunately, in recent years we’ve seen a significant resurgence.”

The rise is particularly puzzling given that access to healthcare systems has not changed, nor have diagnostic capabilities. What has changed, according to clinical observations, is sexual behavior. “The difference we see in patients before and after the COVID-19 pandemic is the number of sexual partners. People appear to have more partners and are less likely to use condoms, and that is likely the main reason we are seeing an increase in these two STIs,” she explains.

When asked whether public health campaigns should be intensified, especially as condom use appears to be declining, the vice president of the Hellenic Dermatology and Venereology Society (EDAE) responded, “EDAE runs an annual campaign on sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but I believe a broader initiative is needed—perhaps from the National Public Health Organization (EODY)—to raise awareness across the population that syphilis and gonorrhea are still very much present.”

She emphasized the importance of educating the public on early warning signs that should prompt individuals to seek medical advice from dermatologists who specialize in venereology.

The professor addressed the importance of responsible behavior during the summer vacation season. “This is a time when people relax and socialize more freely. We must remain conscious of our choices when it comes to sexual partners,” she advised.

Using condoms remains a key line of defense, even if they don’t offer 100% protection against all STIs. “They significantly reduce the risk,” she noted, adding that responsible behavior and awareness are essential for protecting both individual and public health.