Global STI Cases Rise Annually Despite Better Testing

An estimated 374 million new curable STI infections happen each year globally. This is a huge number that shows STIs are still a big problem.
By Newsroom | Health, Global |

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a significant global health issue, with an estimated 374 million new curable infections occurring annually among adults aged 15–49 years. This figure, from a 2020 World Health Organization (WHO) estimate, underscores the widespread impact of infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis, alongside persistent viral infections such as HIV, herpes simplex virus, and human papillomavirus. These infections carry consequences far beyond individual suffering, contributing to infertility, adverse pregnancy outcomes, neonatal illness, cancers, and the amplification of HIV transmission, all while fueling stigma and psychosocial distress.

Shifting Landscape of STI Detection and Access

The methods for identifying STIs are evolving, with a notable increase in online testing services. This shift, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has broadened patient options for accessing sexual health services. While advancements in molecular techniques offer more sensitive "near-patient" testing, concerns persist regarding implementation gaps in translating evidence-based guidance into practice.

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Varying Recommendations and At-Risk Groups

Guidance on STI screening is not uniform, with specific recommendations often tailored to patient demographics and behaviors. For instance:

  • Young women under 25 years old are generally advised to undergo annual screening for genital chlamydia and gonorrhea.

  • Transactional sex often warrants comprehensive STI screening.

  • Recommendations differ for males, distinguishing between those who exclusively partner with females and men who have sex with men (MSM).

  • Uptake of screening remains a challenge for individuals already living with HIV.

Urgent Testing and Ongoing Concerns

Immediate testing is advised when a partner is diagnosed with an STI or if genital symptoms develop. However, there's a recognition that "over-testing" may occur based on insufficient information. STI testing is broadly categorized as either active or passive.

Historical Context and Pandemic Impact

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of new STIs in the UK had reached a peak, with particular concern over rising syphilis and gonorrhea infections, predominantly among MSM. While the pandemic period saw a reported decrease in new STI diagnoses in England, this is largely attributed to difficulties in accessing sexual health services and testing. Despite a decline in new HIV diagnoses, the rate of late diagnoses, which carry increased morbidity and mortality, remains static. Public health bodies recommend chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis screening as a baseline, irrespective of the testing location.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many new curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) happen each year worldwide?
Around 374 million new curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are estimated to occur each year in adults aged 15 to 49 globally. This includes infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
Q: What are the main consequences of STIs beyond individual health?
STIs can lead to serious problems like infertility, difficult pregnancies, sickness in newborns, and cancers. They can also make HIV spread more easily and cause social stigma and emotional distress.
Q: Who is specifically advised to get tested for STIs annually?
Young women under 25 years old are usually advised to get tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea every year. People involved in transactional sex also often need full STI testing.
Q: Why is STI testing still a challenge for some people?
Accessing sexual health services and testing can be difficult, as shown by the situation during the COVID-19 pandemic where fewer diagnoses were reported due to testing access issues. Some groups, like people already living with HIV, also find it hard to get tested.
Q: When should someone get tested for STIs urgently?
You should get tested right away if your partner has been diagnosed with an STI or if you notice any symptoms in your genital area. It's important to get tested quickly to prevent further spread or complications.