[Prevention of sexually transmitted diseases or control of prostitutes and patients with venereal diseases? An exemplary, epicritical study in Bremen].

Data derived from laboratory and activity statistics of the Venereal Disease" department of the Public Health Office in Bremen were analysed between 1961 and 1991. The traditional concept to fight venereal diseases" aimed at controlling persons "at risk" for syphilis, gonorrhoea, chancroid or lymphogranuloma. This "high-risk" approach of STD prevention stressed the compulsory, at least twice monthly screening of female prostitutes and neglected other population groups like clients of prostitutes and young people, who might have an elevated risk in acquiring STD. The spread of STD like chlamydia, HPV, herpes and even HIV in considerable parts of the general population underlines the need for developing a more effective STD prevention, based on scientific diagnosis and treatment. Intervention programmes in STD control must be performed in full partnership with the targeted population; this can require great effort and time. But STD control certainly cannot be achieved under the threat of punishment or proscription.