Public Health England figures show there were 420,000 cases of sexually transmitted infections diagnosed in 2017, with cases of syphilis continuing to rise.
A report published by Public Health England (PHE) reveals that while the overall rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remained stable in 2017 compared to 2016, there was a 20% increase in syphilis (from 5,955 cases in 2016 to 7,137 cases in 2017).
The increase in syphilis follows a 10-year trend, with 78% of diagnoses in gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM). PHE is working with partner organisations to develop an action plan to address this rise. A key aim of the plan will be to increase numbers and frequency of tests in populations at higher risk of infection, to promote early detection and treatment.