Sexually transmitted diseases in Kuwait: current status and recommendations for control

ABSTRACT

The prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Diseases [STDs] in Kuwait has been reported among both Kuwaitis and non-Kuwaitis, often leading to serious complications. This paper attempts to review the existing status of the disease, the ministerial regulations for STD control, the extent of compliance with reporting requirements, and above all management deficiencies, so as to be able to suggest recommendations for instituting an effective mechanism for STD management, prevention and control in Kuwait. Recent data from the Family Planning Department show an overall increase in syphilis from 2.3/100,000 population in 1992, to 7.0/100,000 in 1995. Increasing trends have also been observed with regard to gonorrhea, non. specific urethritis and genital herpes. However, being confined to only one source, these statistics provide a limited view of the STDs actual prevalence in Kuwait. Most cases go unrecognized because of inadequate or lack of notification, management limitation and the fear of social stigma concerning STDs, which prevent most patients from seeking medical advice. In addition, the accessibility of STD drugs without prescription from pharmacies in violation of the legal regulations raises questions about the implementation of the law, and its ineffective enforcement. An effective STD control strategy together with a refined and vigilant management, and a more vigorous notification programme appear to be an urgent requirement in order to reverse the increasing trend in STD morbidity and mortality in Kuwait and accelerate the process of STD prevention and control