[Dramatic decline in the incidence of gonorrhea and syphilis in Greenland--result of an intervention strategy?].

During this century the incidence of gonorrhoea in Greenland has increased continuously and since the late 1960's syphilis has been reported with two epidemic peaks in 1976 and 1987. In 1986 a systematic intervention strategy was initiated consisting of 1) information and education, 2) enhancement of the attention of the medical profession to STD 3) critical evaluation of methods of examination and treatment 4) carefully performed partner notification and the use of epi-treatment of contacts in selected cases and finally 5) continued public information about the result of these efforts and the prevention of spread of HIV-infection. Education was established in schools. Instructions for examination and treatment were renewed, special training was offered to health care personnel, and in 1988 a venereologist was employed by the Health Service. An almost constant decline in the incidences of both gonorrhoea and syphilis has now been demonstrated, which may easily be attributed to the above measures. However, it is uncertain whether the reduction is due to the improved treatment or a real change in sexual behaviour. Studies of knowledge and behaviour indicate that it is still necessary to influence attitudes to sexual behaviour, and to teach "safer sex" in order to further reduce the incidence of STD and to impede the spread of HIV.