Gay men living with HIV in Western Europe are disproportionately affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), according to a new study published in the October edition of the journal Sexually Transmitted Diseases.

Researchers examined data published between 1996 and 2006 that focused on men in 12 countries: Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

They found that syphilis, gonorrhea, LGV (lymphogranuloma venereum) and hepatitis C are all affecting HIV-positive gay men at higher rates than HIV-negative gay men. The study authors stress that these results demonstrate a need to routinely test HIV-positive gay men for STIs, and also say that safe-sex messages should expand beyond HIV prevention and emphasize the consequences of STI infection.

“These messages should also underline the risks associated with sexual practices other than unprotected anal intercourse with a partner of unknown or discordant HIV status,” they write.