ST JAMES, Jamaica — The Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) is reporting that the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) across western Jamaica has remained relatively stable over the past three years, with occasional fluctuations.

“We would not say we have seen any significant increase at this time in STI. In 2024, we saw a very slight increase, but in 2025, we noticed that it returned to our 2023 baseline,” WRHA Regional Priority Communicable Disease Coordinator, Dr Tanesha Hickman, indicated.

She told JIS News that a similar trend has been observed in HIV cases, with no overall rise in reported numbers across the region.

However, the persistent concentration of cases among young adults remains a major concern for health officials, as this age group is the most socially and sexually active segment of the population.

Young adults, aged 20 to 29, continue to represent the largest percentage of HIV and STI infections in western Jamaica, according to the WRHA.

Dr Hickman noted that trends over the past three years indicate this age group remains the most affected, followed by individuals aged 30 to 39, while emphasising that vulnerable groups continue to require targeted interventions to curb transmission and improve access to care.

She noted that particular attention is being given to populations facing barriers, including at-risk youth and individuals affected by social or economic challenges that hinder access to testing and treatment services.

Dr Hickman explained that these groups often require focused outreach and support, as social and economic challenges, stigma, and limited access to services heighten their vulnerability to HIV and other STIs.

She emphasised that addressing the needs of these populations is vital to reducing overall infection rates, noting that HIV prevalence among these groups often surpasses that of the general population.

Dr Hickman further noted that women represent the majority of STI cases reported in clinics, as they are more likely to seek medical care.

“This does not mean that men are not getting infected. But we know that women have better health-seeking behaviour and, in some instances, we have to, through the females, get treatment to the male partners,” she said.

The WRHA continues to prioritise targeted education, outreach, and prevention programmes to reduce infections among young people and other vulnerable groups.

Jamaica observed Safer Sex Week from February 9 to 13 under the theme ‘Tek Charge: Safer Sex with Endless Possibilities!’, which underscored the importance of responsible sexual behaviour, testing, and prevention to safeguard both individual and public health.

—    JIS