The 'other' sexually transmitted diseases: a case for public health education

Generally, people tend to associate the phrase 'sexually transmitted diseases' (STDs) with only gonorrhoea and syphilis. This paper highlights the prevalence of other diseases such as herpes simplex, trichomoniasis and candidiasis which are also sexually transmitted. It is shown that, although they are rarely discussed and reported, various estimates, particularly in the developed countries where statistics are available, indicate that their incidence rates are rapidly rising to epidemic proportions and, in certain instances, have surpassed the annual cases of syphilis and gonorrhoea. Their causative organisms, mode of spread, signs and symptoms, complications, prevention and control are presented. Although knowledge of the above are important, it is emphasised that it is much more desirable to focus on prevention through public health education. Health education strategies such as avoiding sexual exposure with infectees, personal hygiene, simulation, role-play and unemotional discussion in schools and the use of mass media in disseminating information to the public regarding prevention, control and how to seek for treatment are elaborated upon.