On Aconcagua Radio: They warn about the increase in sexually transmitted infections

In an interview withAconcagua Radio , Dr. Víctor Bittar, director of the Mendoza Provincial AIDS Program, explained that sexually transmitted infections , especially syphilis, are on the rise in Mendoza. He detailed the HIV situation, the impact of the relaxation of safe sex practices , and new tools such as pre-exposure prophylaxis.

"There has indeed been a general increase in all sexually transmitted infections, particularly syphilis," he warned. Although HIV remains on a "sort of plateau," with stable figures for years, other infections have shown a worrying upward trend. He also stated that "There are free condoms in health centers, but they are not being used as they should."

The specialist explained that "most sexually transmitted infections, including syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia infections, and HPV lesions, are on the rise." In the specific case of syphilis, it is a highly contagious infection through simple contact, unlike HIV, which requires the exchange of fluids. "It is a bacterium found in mucous membranes, such as the mouth, rectum, or vagina, and is easily transmitted from one person to another," Bittar explained.

The increase in rates is clear: "From a rate of 40 or 42 cases per 100,000 inhabitants seven years ago, we've gone to more than 70 or 75 cases per 100,000 inhabitants," he reported. Added to this is underreporting, especially in private practice. "We doctors perceive a very significant increase: we are detecting more cases of syphilis than before," he indicated.

Regarding condom use, Bittar was blunt: "Condoms are not being used to the extent one would expect." Although the province of Mendoza purchased more than half a million units to distribute free of charge after the national supply cut, actual use is not as high as expected. "Many people come to pick up condoms through the program, but we're not sure they are always used," he stated.

Substance use also impacts this scenario. "Under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, people lose control of their sexual acts and often, even if they have a condom, they don't use it," the specialist said. This relaxation, coupled with the false belief that STIs are easily cured, contributes to the increase.

"Syphilis is cured with a dose of penicillin, gonorrhea with a dose of ceftriaxone. I think we've lost the fear and respect for these diseases," Bittar noted. Even regarding HIV, the expert emphasized that "it's no longer a deadly disease; today it's a chronic infection with treatment and a good life expectancy."

Given this scenario, since 2022, Mendoza has implemented "combined prevention" strategies, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a daily medication that prevents the virus from replicating. "There are many people in Mendoza who are on PrEP. It's highly effective at preventing infections," he stated.

PrEP is offered at specialized centers such as Emilio Coni, and social security and prepaid health plans are required to cover it under the national HIV law in force since 2022. Post-exposure prophylaxis is also maintained, with immediate treatment after a risky situation.

Bittar has been leading the Provincial AIDS Program for 30 years. "This year marks my 30th anniversary. I've seen many governments come and go, but I've always managed from a technical perspective," he said proudly. The program, created by law in 1997, is self-funded, making it a pioneer in the country.

"I do it with pleasure; it's a topic I'm passionate about," Bittar concluded, with the clarity of someone who knows the issue intimately and continues to fight to prevent and raise public awareness about the risks that, although known, remain.

Listen to the full article here, and you can listen to the radio live at www.aconcaguaradio.com