In 2024, there were 2,864 confirmed cases, with 572 of those being asymptomatic.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, 13th Feb (Europa Press) –
The Primary Care Management of the Health Sector in Tenerife, under the Ministry of Health of the Canary Islands Government, has conducted over 8,975 early detection screenings for sexually transmitted diseases through the ‘Screening Point’ initiative.
This programme, launched in 2023, is aiding in the “improvement” of early diagnoses for HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and viral hepatitis across the island, as stated by the Ministry of Health.
Throughout 2024, a total of 2,864 positive cases have been identified, of which 2,092 presented symptoms, while 572 were asymptomatic. Among the detected conditions this year, the majority of cases were Chlamydia Trachomatis (673), Gonorrhoea (437), and Mycoplasma Genitalium (348), with positive cases of syphilis (193), Trichomonas (104), and HIV (27) also detected.
The Ministry highlights the “significant milestone” represented by this data in the preventive efforts conducted within primary care in Tenerife, facilitated by this resource for identifying infectious diseases, which enables control over the spread and commencement of treatment at an early stage.
The findings were discussed during a coordination meeting with the Screening Point team and the Nursing Director of the Tenerife Primary Care Management, outlining the activities undertaken and new strategies for 2025.
Consequently, core challenges and targets were identified to enhance the early detection of viral STIs, HIV, and hepatitis, as well as to optimise access to screening services and to continue efforts aimed at engaging populations eligible for specific vaccines.
Among the suggested initiatives, the importance of bolstering health prevention and promotion through health education and community initiatives has been emphasised, particularly focusing on raising awareness regarding sexual health in various sectors.
Continuing to strengthen collaboration with the General Directorate of Public Health of the Canary Health Service and the reference laboratories at the Nuestra Señora de Candelaria University Hospital and the University Hospital of the Canary Islands was also proposed.
Screening Point Project
The Screening Point is an “innovative” initiative devised by the Tenerife Primary Care Management, launched in February 2023 to address and identify various pathologies such as HIV, STIs, and viral hepatitis within the community.
This initiative facilitates early detection tests in a confidential, accessible, and effective manner for the population. In cases of positive results, patients are provided with appointments for appropriate follow-up and treatment.
Moreover, affected individuals receive guidance to address any inquiries they might have, thus contributing to reinforcing prevention of these infections within the community, including specific vaccination recommendations.
This project features four screening points located in the health centres of Añaza and La Cuesta. Consequently, those interested in securing an appointment at any of these sites should consult their health centre.
Early Emergency Detection
In emergency care, this initiative entails an extension of the automated system introduced by the SCS within medical records for the prompt detection of HIV in hospital emergency services, particularly for patients presenting diseases linked to the infection.
The Ministry of Health asserts that this project makes the diagnosis “more accessible” for a specific group of individuals who do not regularly use primary care services where early detection screenings for sexually transmitted diseases are conducted.
Additionally, Health authorities and several NGOs are partnering on a rapid testing initiative for the early detection of HIV and other STIs. The General Directorate of Public Health of the Canarian Health Service, which oversees the AIDS Plan in the Canary Islands, coordinates a programme for early HIV detection and other STIs through the implementation of rapid tests in community settings, working alongside non-governmental organisations and other collaborative entities across the archipelago.
The programme for early HIV detection via rapid tests for HIV, hepatitis C, and syphilis in community settings has been operational since September 2010, aiming to enhance accessibility to testing for HIV and other STIs, thereby facilitating prompt diagnosis for individuals living with HIV.
