Sexual Diseases Now Of ‘epidemic Proportions’ (Press, 11 October 1984)

On 11 October 1984, it was reported that sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in Australia have reached epidemic levels, significantly contributing to birth deformities and infertility, according to Dr Basil Donovan, vice-president of the National Venereology Council. During the Australian Medical Writers’ Association’s first annual conference, Dr Donovan urged for a national inquiry into the prevalence and control of these diseases, stating that they represent the greatest public health problem faced by Australia. He expressed concern that health authorities are largely ignoring the situation while society responds with moralistic attitudes. Dr Donovan highlighted alarming statistics about the notification of STDs in Australia, claiming that less than 10 percent of cases were officially reported. He explained that chlamydia, often referred to as non-specific urethritis, is currently the most widespread STD, predominantly affecting men while often remaining untreated in women due to a lack of symptoms. He indicated that this infection is responsible for about one-third of infertility cases among Australian couples, as it leads to pelvic inflammatory disease in women. The doctor further elaborated on the alarming rise of STDs in recent years, drawing parallels to trends observed in the United States. He noted a staggering 1000 percent increase in the incidence of genital herpes over the past decade. Additionally, he pointed out that cervical cancer, now recognised as an STD, is reaching epidemic levels in the Western world, with a growing number of cases of genital warts, which are believed to be linked to this type of cancer. Dr Donovan also discussed the presence of cytomegalovirus, a herpes-related virus now found in all homosexuals and half of the heterosexual population. While it usually does not produce symptoms, this virus is responsible for a range of health issues, including congenital retardation and deformities in infants, conditions that can be more severe than those caused by the rubella virus. Moreover, Dr Donovan addressed the increasing number of AIDS cases in Australia and projected that this trend would continue for the next five years. He noted that homosexual men face an 80 percent lifetime risk of contracting hepatitis B, a virus that can lead to chronic liver disease, subsequently resulting in cirrhosis and liver cancer. Dr Donovan's statements paint a concerning picture of the state of sexually transmitted diseases in Australia, emphasising the urgent need for awareness, better reporting, and effective public health measures to combat these increasingly prevalent health issues.

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