Sexually transmitted diseases are on the rise

Despite pandemic restrictions, cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are affecting teens and young adults ages 15 to 24, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The number of cases of gonorrhea, syphilis, and congenital syphilis has sharply exceeded pre-pandemic levels. This development of events is not surprising, given long-term trend of steady increase in the number of STD cases. The reasons are clearly hidden in limited access to medical care, as well as reluctance to undergo testing, lack of information about a safe and healthy sex life, and misinformation on this issue, as well as, mainly, the fear that “it is shameful.”

Of all patients, adolescents and LGBT+ people experience stigmatization (from the Greek στíγμα – “label, brand”, “brand”, disgrace) more intensely. “Sexually transmitted diseases if not treated on time, can have very serious consequences such as infertility, blindness and even deathand also be a risk factor for HIV infection, which causes AIDS.

Adolescents are a high-risk group for infection, especially those with low socioeconomic status, multiple sexual partners, and promiscuity.

In addition, they usually have insufficient knowledge about protective equipment (condoms) and their correct use. “For example, in 2020, only 51% of sexually active American teenagers used a condom during sexual intercourse,” notes urologist andrologist Dr. Anastasios Livanios.

That is, half of adolescents and young adults are likely to have one of the many recognized sexually transmitted diseases, such as human papillomavirus (HPV); HIV, which causes AIDS; herpes virus, as well as syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia.

Some of these diseases have no symptoms, and the only way to detect and treat the infection is to get tested. Some of these infections can also affect the mouth (through oral sex).

According to the latest US data, the number of new cases of chlamydia infection is steadily increasing, with 62% of new cases occurring in teenagers. Gonorrhea and syphilis are also not far behind: since 2016, the incidence of gonorrhea has increased by 45%, syphilis by 52%, and congenital syphilis by 235%.

However, based on available statistics, the number HIV infections are decreasing. In 2021, compared to 2017, there were 12% fewer of them, which is associated with a 34% decrease in new infections among people aged 13 to 24 years, mainly among gay and bisexual men.

“Anyone who is sexually active can become infected with the virus, but teenagers and young adults are most vulnerable. That’s why parents, teachers, doctors and agencies should turn to sex education. Only knowledge can lead to a reduction in the number of accidents someday in the future. Children need to learn what sexual behavior puts them at risk from others.

The problem is that teenagers are afraid to see a doctor and look for the answer (or “cure”) on the Internet! Keep in mind that delaying diagnosis and treatment could make you a source of infection for other people without their knowledge and expose them to serious health risks in the future, says Mr. Livanios. – Prevention saves lives. Using condoms and being in a monogamous relationship with a healthy partner reduces the likelihood of infection. Of course none preventive measures do not guarantee 100% protection. But the development of medicine makes it easier to control and treat. Antibiotics are available to treat sexually transmitted bacterial diseases. For viral diseases, technologies and drugs have been developed that effectively treat symptoms and slow their recurrence (since they cannot be completely eradicated), as well as vaccines that protect against infection. And there are medications that reduce the likelihood of infection before and after contact with infected partners. There are many options and there is no reason to worry if the diagnosis is made early. Knowledge, prevention, de-stigmatization and regular checkups are four ways to avoid problems with STDs.”

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