The Better2Know Blog

Here we give you an understanding about what HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and Genital Warts are and discuss the different strains of HPV. We examine the symptoms and how it can be contracted. We will also recommend the best testing options and compare HPV statistics in the Middle East with other regions.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) which can lead to life-threatening consequences if left untreated. Syphilis progresses in three prominent stages: primary, secondary and tertiary. A Syphilis infection can be easily cured and treated in the earlier stages, so it’s important to understand which symptoms to look out for before the infection is able to cause permanent damage.

According to a report by UAE based newspaper, the Khaleej Times, the Middle East has one of the fastest growing HIV epidemics in the world. The article included figures from a 2013 UNAIDS study, which estimated that the total number of HIV positive people in the UAE alone was 230,000 at the time of the study.

Cultural changes, travelling, and altering religious values were listed as potential reasons for the heightened risk of HIV. Along with Sharjah, the majority of the UAE’s positive HIV cases were found in Dubai, reflecting the emirate’s large, multicultural population, “possibly higher levels of risk behaviours” and, potentially, “more exposure to the high-risk phenomena associated with HIV.”

Whatever is behind this developing trend there is reason to be cautious, and testing is the only way to be certain of your HIV status. If you have concerns about HIV, or are simply unsure, keep yourself and your partner safe by getting tested at your earliest convenience.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) released their latest report into the Herpes simplex virus in February 2022.  The report contained key facts, statistics and information while also outlining the WHO response to herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2).   Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-I) and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-II) are two types of the Herpes Simplex Virus.

Hepatitis is a viral infection which affects the liver. There are many different strains of Hepatitis. Some infections will only last for a short period of time, whilst others can become chronic and lead to serious health problems. Here we explain the main differences between Hepatitis A, B and C, and why it is important to be tested for each.

In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), the rate of current Chlamydia infections is similar to other parts of the world – around 3 percent. This surprising statistic confirms that, despite cultural and religious norms, STIs, and Chlamydia in particular, are widely spread throughout the general population.

The Middle East region remains an area of high risk despite low HIV prevalence. It is an area of increasing concern, especially regarding new infections and AIDS-related deaths.

When Should I Get Tested for an STI?

It is advisable to get tested for sexually transmitted infections regularly. This helps to prevent an untreated STI from triggering the development of further issues that may affect your long-term health. [1] You should arrange an STI test as soon as possible if any of the following circumstances relate to your current situation [2][3]:

• You have met a new partner
• You have multiple partners
• A recent or previous partner has told you they are positive for an STI
• You are experiencing symptoms you are worried about
• It has been a while since you got tested
• You had a recent sexual encounter that worries you
• You are concerned about your sexual health

Globally, cases of sexually transmitted infections are still unacceptably high. More than a million STIs are caught or passed on every day. It is widely accepted that STIs heighten the risk of HIV transmission and some can cause cases of cancer that are common around the world, such as cervical cancer. The number of HIV diagnoses worldwide was not reduced between the years 2010 and 2015 in young people and adults – threatening the 2030 goal of ending the HIV epidemic.

Better2Know is the Middle East’s largest provider of private and confidential STI testing services. After a hugely successful 2021, we are hoping to help even more people with their sexual health in 2022.

Better2Know offers a variety of STI screens throughout the UAE that combine testing for Gonorrhoea and other common infections such as Chlamydia, HIV and Syphilis. For a thorough analysis of your sexual health we suggest the Better2Know Platinum Screen, this will give you peace of mind regarding ten potential infections. We have private sexual health clinics across several Emirates including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman and Al Ain.

Better2Know is the world’s leading provider of private HIV and STI testing services. With clinics throughout the UAE, including Sharjah, Better2Know’s HIV testing is available around the country. Our private sexual health clinics in Sharjah are open throughout the week for swift, accurate and confidential testing.

Better2Know is the Middle East’s largest private provider of sexual health testing services, with clinics in prime locations such as Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dubai, Muscat, Riyadh and beyond. With a comprehensive range of stress-free tests and screens, specially put together by our panel of medical experts, STI testing in the Middle East has never been easier.

Better2Know is the Middle East’s largest private provider of sexual health testing services. We have world class clinics across the region, including major cities such as Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dubai and Muscat. Our comprehensive service offers tests and screens for a variety of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

You have just tested positive for Genital Herpes. What does this mean? Turning to Dr Google is doing nothing to help aside from bamboozling you with complex medical terms and contradicting information. What is the difference between Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) and Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2)? All you want to know is ‘what’s the cure?’.

The number of people dying from AIDS-related illnesses is ‘soaring’ in the Arab region, according to a report published earlier this month. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that AIDS-related deaths in the Middle East and North Africa have increased by more than 250% in the last 15 years.

Better2Know’s exclusive instant testing range provides rapid, reliable STI results for six sexually transmitted infections. Available at our private STI clinics in Dubai, you can receive fast, accurate STI results for a range of STIs, including HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.

Better2Know has sexual health clinics across the Middle East and, subject to availability, we can get you an appointment on the same day that you make your booking. Our discreet testing services are available in Manama.

Better2Know is the largest provider of private STI testing services in the United Arab Emirates. Our exceptional sexual health clinics offer a wide range of tests and screens, designed by medical specialists to give you complete peace of mind. We offer comprehensive testing for a variety of STIs, such as HIV, Syphilis, Gonorrhoea, Herpes and many others, including Chlamydia.

Better2Know is a global leader in private sexual health testing services, with clinics throughout the Middle East and beyond. Thanks to a wide range of comprehensive tests and screens, put together by our team of medical specialists, getting an STI test in Qatar has never been simpler.

Better2Know provides conclusive, confidential Syphilis testing at private clinics across the Middle East, including Oman. Transmitted sexually via oral, anal or vaginal intercourse, or through unprotected contact with a Syphilis sore, the infection can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Worried about HIV? Concerned about Chlamydia, Syphilis, or any other sexually transmitted infection (STI)? An STI test with Better2Know will alleviate any doubts you may have regarding the status of your sexual health. We can offer same day appointments in the UAE.

Better2Know provides private Gonorrhoea testing throughout the Middle East. We have same or next day availability at STI clinics in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Better2Know is the global leader in private sexual health testing services. We have outstanding testing facilities in Kuwait and throughout the Middle East, all of which operate at the highest international standards.

Better2Know provides private STI and HIV testing services throughout the Middle East – including in Oman. As international experts in sexual health, Better2Know’s team of sexual health advisors are highly trained to help you with your STI related concerns. They will provide guidance and support throughout your patient journey.

Better2Know is the Middle East’s largest provider of private sexual health testing services, with world-class facilities across the region, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We offer confidential testing for harmful infections like HIV, Syphilis, Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea at private clinics nationwide.

Syphilis is a curable bacterial infection, though, if left untreated, it can cause significant damage to your body over time. Better2Know provides private Syphilis testing throughout the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with same or next day availability six days a week.

Better2Know has private sexual health clinics situated throughout the Middle East, with locations including the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Our private STI clinics can provide same day or next day appointments six days a week for your convenience.

Better2Know is the Middle East’s largest provider of private sexual health testing services, with world-class facilities across the UAE, including the Emirate of Al Ain. We can help you to look after your sexual health and get the peace of mind you need surrounding your sexual health.

Better2Know is the world’s leading provider of private sexual health testing services. We offer discreet STI tests and screens in countries across the Middle East, including Kuwait. Our conveniently located facility in the capital, Kuwait City, operates at the highest international standards of quality. The clinic has same or next day availability six days a week, testing patients swiftly and efficiently for a wide range of STIs, including Syphilis.