A new report shows that young people in particular are becoming infected with syphilis. On the other hand, HIV infection is still low.
More adults are becoming infected with syphilis. This is shown by a new report from the National Medical Board on syphilis and HIV in Greenland.
In 2024, 242 cases of syphilis were detected. In 2023, the number was 213. Since 2015, the rate has grown from around one to over four cases per 1,000 inhabitants—a fourfold increase in a decade.
It is mainly young people who are becoming infected. The 20–24 year olds make up the largest group with almost 30 per cent. The 15–19 year olds follow with 22 per cent of the cases. There are no cases among minors.
Women account for 62 per cent of all syphilis cases.
The place where the most infections have been detected is in Tasiilaq. Here there are a whopping 19.9 cases per 1,000 inhabitants.
Five out of 13 cities are above the national average, and Nuuk is just below with 3.5 cases per 1,000 inhabitants.
The city with the fewest infections is Maniitsoq, with only three cases in 2024.
The number of syphilis cases in 2024 is calculated for men and for women as well as an age-standardized calculation per 1,000 inhabitants. The population is based on the mid-life population as stated by Statistics Greenland.
HIV Infection Is Falling
The report also looks at HIV cases. Here, however, the trend is different. Five new HIV cases were registered in 2024, corresponding to 0.09 per 1,000 inhabitants.
Three women and two men were infected, and four of the infected people lived in Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq.
In general, HIV infection continues to decline. There have been 213 cases since 1985, when the first case was registered.
The highest figures were in the 1990s, after which the number has generally decreased and now varies at a low level year by year.
Prevention And Information
The Government of Greenland will also focus on combating syphilis. On the occasion of World AIDS Day on Monday, December 1, the Minister of Health and Persons with Disabilities, Anna Wangenheim, stated in a press release:
“When we see very high numbers for sexually transmitted diseases and induced abortions year after year, it is a clear signal: We must act. There is a need for us to focus more on prevention and health promotion across sectors. We must strengthen efforts for information, dialogue and accessibility of contraception.”
“Everyone must have the knowledge and opportunity to exercise their right to protect themselves against disease and unwanted pregnancy,” she said.
Source: Sermitsiaq (in Danish)