Phase specific strategies for the prevention, control, and elimination of sexually transmitted diseases: background country profile, England and Wales.

The development of non-invasive tests for evidence of current or past infection offers new prospects for carrying out population studies of sexually transmitted infection (STI) epidemiology, and for improved understanding of the behavioural and biological determinants of STI transmission. In turn this may guide screening, treatment, and behavioural interventions. The evidence base for many interventions is sparse and randomised trials of interventions are in their early days. Increasingly, linked behavioural and biological outcomes will be required to measure effectiveness. Integrated efforts are needed at a national level to achieve greater coordination between STD, HIV, and contraception services, school education, and broader public education and programmes.