STI diagnoses dropped by 16% in Central Bedfordshire last year, figures reveal
There were 673 new STI diagnoses in the area in 2024, compared to 797 in 2023
The number of newly diagnosed sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Central Bedfordshire has fallen by 16% over the past year, according to newly published figures from the UK Health Security Agency.
There were 673 new STI diagnoses in the area in 2024, compared to 797 in 2023. The figures show that Central Bedfordshire has recorded a lower rate of new cases per 100,000 people than the national average for each of the past 13 years.
The data also highlights a significant decline in gonorrhoea cases, which dropped by 27%, from 171 in 2023 to 125 in 2024. Central Bedfordshire also remains below the national average for the number of recorded new cases of syphilis.
Local public health officials have attributed the decline to continued investment in high-quality contraception and sexual health services. These services include access to testing, treatment, information and advice, and contraception through the integrated Contraception and Sexual Health (iCaSH) service.
STIs do not always present symptoms, and health professionals continue to emphasise the importance of condom use and regular testing to prevent transmission and avoid complications.
Councillor Mark Smith, Executive Member for Adult Social Care, said:
“This encouraging drop in new STI cases shows how sustained investment in high-quality sexual health and contraception services is making a real difference in Central Bedfordshire. These results highlight the importance of prevention, regular testing, and accessible support for people.
“We’re proud that our rates remain below the national average, and we continue to encourage people to take advantage of local services, including those provided by iCaSH, whether in-person or online.”
The iCaSH service offers a full range of sexual and reproductive health services, including STI and HIV testing and treatment, as well as contraceptive support. Free and confidential online STI testing is also available.