Numbers
The use of a condom is essential to protect yourself and your partners against STDs. If you have any concerns, you should have an STD [1] screening test. In the event of an infection, make sure you follow the correct treatment and inform your sexual partners.
Chlamydia in Belgium
According to Sciensano:
- In Belgium, the average number of registered cases of Chlamydia is increasing by 16% each year.
- In 2014, 5,605 cases of Chlamydia were diagnosed (10.2 cases per 100,000 inhabitants).
- Young people aged between 20 and 24 are most affected, with 1,350 cases in women and 472 in men.
- In 2013, 50% of patients suffering from Chlamydia are under 25 years old.
- In 2013, ⅔ patients affected by a Chlamydia or Gonorrhea [2] infection were diagnosed without having reported any complaint or symptom.
Please note! These statistics are subject to change. Consult Epistat [3].
Chlamydia in Europe
According to the European Center for Disease prevention and Control (ECDC) in 2013 [4] :
- Chlamydia is the most frequently diagnosed STD in Europe
- 384,555 cases of Chlamydia have been diagnosed in Europe (26 EU countries) that is an incidence of 182 cases per 100,000 inhabitants
- Chlamydia was most frequently diagnosed in women with a total incidence of 207 cases diagnosed for every 100,000 women and 153 for men
- the real figure is certainly higher due to the asymptomatic nature of the infection (absence of symptoms)
- ⅔ cases of Chlamydia have been diagnosed in young adults aged between 15 and 24 with a higher number in young women aged between 20 and 24 (1,717 cases per 100,000 inhabitants)
- heterosexual transmission represents 88% of the cases diagnosed.