SEXUALLY-TRANSMITTED DISEASES CONTROL IN DEVELOPING-COUNTRIES

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a major public health problem now compounded by the advent of AIDS and HIV infection. The size of t he problem represented by STDs and HIV is unknown however it is estima ted that there are 333 million new cases of STD per annum and currentl y 15-20 million people infected worldwide with HIV. Control programmes for STDs must prevent the acquisition of STDs, their complications an d sequelae and interrupt and reduce transmission. They can also reduce the incidence of HIV infection. Such programmes must place emphasis o n health education, condom usage, altering health seeking behaviour an d providing case management. The syndromic approach currently offers t he most realistic, and cost effective, way in which to treat patients.