Key Facts and Overview of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to pose a major global health challenge, with more than 1 million new curable infections acquired every day worldwide. According to recent data from the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 374 million new STIs were reported in people aged 15-49 in 2020, with chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis being the most common.
In 2022, an alarming 8 million adults between the ages of 15 and 49 were infected with syphilis, while over 500 million people in the same age group were estimated to have genital herpes. These infections not only have direct impacts on sexual and reproductive health but can also lead to serious complications such as infertility, cancers, and pregnancy-related issues.
The prevalence of STIs worldwide has also raised concerns about drug resistance, posing a significant threat to effective treatment and control measures. High rates of resistance have been observed in STIs such as gonorrhea, reducing the efficacy of available antibiotics and limiting treatment options.
To combat the spread of STIs, WHO emphasizes the importance of prevention through safe sexual practices and the use of condoms. In addition, vaccines for viral STIs such as hepatitis B and HPV have shown promising results in preventing infections and reducing the risk of associated cancers.
Despite efforts to address STIs, challenges such as limited access to diagnostic tests and treatment, stigma, and inadequate health services continue to hinder progress. WHO is actively working to develop global targets, standards, and guidelines for STI prevention and treatment, while supporting countries in implementing comprehensive strategies to address the burden of STIs.
As the global health community continues to grapple with the challenges posed by STIs, it is clear that a concerted effort is needed to strengthen prevention, diagnosis, and treatment measures to control the spread of these infections and improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes worldwide.