According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are at a shocking high. The agency reported there are at least 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and congenital syphilis. Take into consideration that those are just reported cases, so it’s likely the actual numbers are even higher. The report from the CDC provides data for 2021 and shows that gonorrhea rates increased more than 4%, syphilis rates surged, increasing nearly 32% and chlamydia rates increased nearly 4%. These numbers are skyrocketing and according to Dr. Leandro Mena, director of the CDC’s division of STD prevention, “The U.S. STI epidemic shows no signs of slowing.”
How did we get here
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During the early stages of the pandemic, STI testing rates declined due to factors such as healthcare clinics closing or limiting in-person appointments, resource reallocation to combat Covid-19, and the implementation of social distancing measures that curtailed sexual activity. The diversion of personnel and medical supplies to Covid-19 efforts further exacerbated the situation, causing a delay or restriction in STI screening, treatment, and prevention.
This crisis underscored existing healthcare system gaps and health disparities, particularly affecting populations vulnerable to STDs, unintended pregnancies, HIV, housing instability, violence, and inadequate insurance. As a response, federal health agencies have called for increased efforts from healthcare and public health experts, emphasizing STI prevention and innovation efforts. This could include the expansion of local public health services for STI testing and treatment, making testing and treatment more accessible, and advancing research into STI prevention through vaccines and post-exposure prophylaxis.
STI rates rise among older adults
Particularly concerning is the sharp increase in STI rates among the age group referred to as “older adults,” those aged 65 and above. Surprisingly, they are one of the fastest-growing demographics contracting STIs. In fact, STI rates within the older adult population have doubled over the past five years, highlighting the need for increased awareness and preventive measures among this demographic.
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Breaking down the stigma: At-home testing as a solution
Despite the prevalence of STIs, many people are unaware of the risks associated with unprotected sexual activity and the importance of getting tested regularly. With the stigma around STIs there’s a risk for delayed STI diagnosis and treatment, which leads to people unknowingly spreading STIs. One of the many benefits of at-home STI testing is that it is a more discreet and convenient option for individuals who may be hesitant to seek care through traditional channels. By allowing people to test for STIs remotely, it removes some of the stigma associated with STI testing.
The power of regular testing
One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of STIs is through regular testing. Many STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning that people can be infected and unknowingly pass the infection on to others. Regular testing can help detect STIs early on, making it easier to treat and prevent the spread of the infection.
The convenience of at-home testing
Fortunately, getting tested for STIs has never been easier. Now with at-home STI testing kits, people can get tested in the comfort and privacy of their own homes. These test kits are available at most pharmacies and are easy to use. They typically include a blood or urine sample that is sent to a CLIA Certified lab for analysis. Digital results are usually available within a few days, and if necessary patients can receive next care steps recommended by a clinician, all from the comfort of their home.
Increasing access to care
Increased access to care is a critical part of preventive care for STIs. At-home testing kits have made testing more accessible and convenient for many people. By removing the barriers to testing, such as the need to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider or to visit a clinic, more people are likely to get tested and receive the care they need.
Community-based efforts and education
In addition to at-home testing kits, there are other ways to increase access to care and promote preventive care for STIs. For example, healthcare providers can provide patients with information about STI testing and prevention, and encourage them to get tested regularly.
Community-based organizations and advocacy groups can also play an important role in promoting STI awareness and access to care. These groups can provide education and outreach to underserved communities, where rates of STIs may be higher. They can also offer support and resources to people who have been diagnosed with an STI, helping them to navigate the healthcare system and access the care they need.
Conclusion: Taking control of your sexual health
By promoting STI awareness and increasing access to care, we can reduce the incidence of STIs and improve the overall health and wellbeing of our communities. If you are sexually active, it is important to get tested regularly for STIs. At-home testing kits are a discreet and convenient way to do so.
Despite the screening recommendations from the CDC and other public health authorities, the rate of testing has fallen short for many of the more common STIs. This is often due to the stigma surrounding STIs, which can make it difficult for some people to seek testing. However, knowing your STI status is crucial not only for your own health but also for the health of your partners and the community at large. Regular testing and education are key steps in reversing the trend of rising STI rates.
Photo: d3sign, Getty Images
Bernard Esquivel MD, PhD serves as Chief Medical Officer at ixlayer. He is a practicing physician-scientist, senior executive, and international leader with in-depth expertise in developing new markets, devising compelling value propositions, go-to-market strategies, and launching programs to fulfill organizational goals and objectives in the health tech space, maintaining the highest alignment with the best regulatory practices. Bernard obtained his specialization and certification from Harvard University in Healthcare Regulatory Topics and Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare. Clinical Immunologist, Allergies, and Medical Genetics by training with 12+ years of experience in materializing biotech and health sciences ideas and concepts into clinically actionable solutions. Bernard mobilized the local healthcare community to engage them in the practice of precision medicine by founding and presiding over the Latin American Association of Personalized Medicine (ALAMP). This organization now includes >500 members from 9 countries in Latin America, and holds symposiums, provider workshops, and other educational outreach. Serving as Chief Medical Officer for several well-renowned global organizations, he has demonstrated his passion and advocacy for bringing precision medicine & digital health closer to patients.
