WHO: increasingly prevalent sexually transmitted diseases
Sexually transmitted diseases are spreading more widely worldwide
A Global Spread
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that new cases of syphilis in people aged 15 to 49 increased by almost 1 million in 2022, reaching 8 million. There were 230,000 deaths related to syphilis. Most of the increases occurred in the Americas and Africa. Urgent global action is needed.
Of particular concern is the rise of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea, the so-called “super gonorrhea.”
In 2023, tests conducted in 87 countries showed high levels (from 5 to 40%) of resistance to the latest treatment for gonorrhea, ceftriaxone. WHO is closely monitoring this phenomenon. It has updated treatment guidelines to prevent the spread of these multi-resistant strains.
A Global-Sized Issue
Sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis remain a significant global public health problem.
They result in 2.5 million deaths annually. Despite prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, estimated deaths from viral hepatitis have increased from 1.1 million in 2019 to 1.3 million in 2022. New HIV infections have decreased from 1.5 million in 2020 to 1.3 million in 2022. But HIV-related deaths remain high, with 630,000 in 2022, 13% of which are in children under 15.
An Increasingly Urgent Prevention Plan
The WHO study shows that we must act quickly to combat sexually transmitted infections and antibiotic-resistant superbugs. We need plans for prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment. These actions are critical to controlling the spread of infections and reducing public health risks worldwide. Additionally, raising public awareness through education and investing in sexual and reproductive health services. These actions promote healthy habits and reduce the burden of infections globally.
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