The scars of Venus

Abstract

This short report summarises the STIs and related conditions, seen in 2005 at the GU Clinic. This, of course, cannot be extrapolated to gauge any trends in the country as a whole and should not be interpreted as such. We need national prevalence studies for this information. There were a total of 1832 attendances, a 15% increase over 2004. 74% were new patients, in keeping with the clinic's policy of offering follow-up visits only if strictly indicated. More time can then be thus dedicated to new cases. 174 of the new patients were non-residents. The male: female ratio was l.6: l. The female attendances have gradually increased over the years, compared to a preponderance of males (M: F 2.3:1) in 2000. Patient self- referral remains the most popular at 78% of the total. Caritas referrals account for 4 .6% and doctor referral remains low at 16.8% (precisely the percentage for 2004) . As to sexuality 89% were heterosexual, 8% MSM (men who have sex with men) and 3% bisexual. Only one patient admitted to being lesbian.