Madrid: 8.3% Rise in STI Cases & 23% More Rapid Tests in 2025

Madrid is increasing its efforts to address rising rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In 2025, the region saw an 8.3 percent increase in the number of people accessing its STI prevention network, with a total of 13,480 individuals receiving care across more than 60 facilities.

Increased Testing and Accessibility

More Rapid Tests Available

This increase in access to care was accompanied by a 23 percent rise in the number of rapid tests for HIV and syphilis. A total of 21,982 rapid tests were conducted in 2025, including 11,801 for HIV, 7,418 for syphilis, and 2,763 for hepatitis C. This surge in testing is linked to the implementation of a self-appointment system and the opening of new testing facilities, bringing the total number of first-level care facilities offering the service to 17.

Did You Know? Nearly 300,000 units of informational materials and over 2.5 million preventative materials were distributed throughout the region in 2025.

Comprehensive Prevention Strategies

The increased focus on STI prevention extends beyond testing. Within the 2024-2030 Plan for Prevention and Control of STIs and HIV, 403 activities were carried out, with 213 directly managed by the Madrid Health Service. These included the launch of the Sandoval II and Sandoval Sur centres in Alcorcón, a campaign promoting condom use, and over 10,000 outreach efforts via phone calls and WhatsApp messages to 646.132.456.

Expert Insight: The implementation of self-appointment systems and expansion of testing facilities demonstrate a proactive approach to public health, aiming to remove barriers to access and encourage early detection of STIs. Here’s a critical step in controlling the spread of infections and protecting public health.

Efforts also included 19 educational workshops, targeted interventions for the LGBTQ+ community, educational sessions for the Roma population, programs for women in vulnerable situations, and training for healthcare professionals. Over 600 activities were held in connection with Pride celebrations and World AIDS Day, and a coordinated response was developed to address the phenomenon of “chemsex.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of STIs are being addressed?

The initiatives focus on prevention and testing for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis C, as well as addressing a broader range of STIs as outlined in the 2024-2030 Plan for Prevention and Control of STIs and HIV.

How many activities were carried out as part of the prevention plan?

A total of 403 activities were developed within the 2024-2030 Plan, with 213 directly executed by the Madrid Health Service.

Is there a dedicated phone number for information and support?

Yes, the phone number 646.132.456 is available for information and support related to STI prevention and testing.

As Madrid continues to expand its STI prevention network, will these efforts be sufficient to meet the evolving needs of the population and curb the rising rates of infection?