Review article

Public Health Importance of Urogenital Infections and Sexually Transmitted Infections

Marina Kuzman ; Hrvatski zavod za javno zdravstvo
Ariana Znaor ; Hrvatski zavod za javno zdravstvo

Abstract

Sexually transmitted infections are among the most important public health challenges, a significant burden for the healthcare system and a considerable factor reducing quality of life. Beyond their immediate acute effects, SPIs may have long term consequences that could impair both male and female health, especially in reproductive age. This article presents the epidemiological situation and trends in sexually transmitted infections in Europe and Croatia. It also presents the prevalence of genitourinary infections and hospital burden. The most common SPI complications are described, i.e. pelvic inflammatory diseases in Croatia, incidence and registration of spontaneous miscarriages, and trends in the cervical cancer incidence. Following the guidelines of the World Health Organization, programs and activities to promote and improve safe sexual behavior and reproductive health are suggested.

Keywords

sexually transmitted infections; epidemiology; pelvic inflammatory disease; cervical cancer; reproductive health

Hrčak ID:

89341

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/89341

Publication date:

23.1.2012.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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