Syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis are the four main STIs that are expanding quickly.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a new report that is concerning. An estimated 2.5 million people die each year from diseases like HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) around the globe. Syphilis, in particular, is a STI that is spreading quickly. 2022 saw a sharp increase in new cases, particularly in the Americas and Africa. This is particularly troubling because, as the paper states, syphilis is curable. However, by 2030, the WHO thinks we will have the means to combat these illnesses. However, there’s a catch: nations must increase their efforts.
According to WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, “the rising incidence of syphilis raises major concerns.” Thankfully, significant progress has also been made on several other fronts, such as quickening access to essential health resources like diagnosis and treatment. In the context of a world growing more interconnected, we must make sure that nations make every effort to meet the lofty goals they have set for themselves. We possess the means to eradicate these illnesses as dangers to public health by 2030.
Here’s a closer examination of the difficulties:
HIV: Although the number of new cases is gradually declining, development remains sluggish. The disease mostly affects high-risk populations, and HIV-related deaths continue to be substantial—a tragically high percentage of these deaths include youngsters.
Syphilis: The COVID-19 pandemic’s disruptions have been partially associated with an increase in syphilis incidence. Concerns have also been raised over gonorrhea strains that are resistant to the majority of drugs.
Viral Hepatitis: Although there are therapies for hepatitis B and C, the number of new infections is still significant. Viral hepatitis deaths are also increasing.
STIs: Over a million new cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis are reported each day due to the rapid spread of these four major STIs. Luckily, there is treatment for them.