Women Among Groups Most Affected By Rise In STIs, New York Times Reports

A January report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that the prevalence of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis have increased in the U.S., a finding that demonstrates a "growing public health problem with its severest effects among women, young people" and minority groups, the New York Times reports. The figures include only cases reported by local health departments, clinics and hospitals, and these estimates therefore could account for less than half of the actual number of STI cases, according to CDC.

According to the Times, all three STIs can be treated successfully with antibiotics; however, many people continue to spread the conditions because they are unaware of their status. CDC epidemiologist Stuart Berman said, "Condoms are a very good way to reduce the risk of getting infections," adding, "If you use them all the time, and use them correctly, they work." Berman also emphasized the importance of regular STI screening. He recommended that pregnant women and men who have sex with men should have yearly screenings for chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis. In addition, sexually active women younger than age 26 should have yearly chlamydia screenings, Berman said.

According to the Times, chlamydia prevalence among women is three times greater than among men. All three STIs can be transmitted through vaginal, oral or anal sexual contact. When left untreated, chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Syphilis also has varied severe symptoms, and all three infections can be transmitted to infants at birth, the Times reports (Bakalar, New York Times, 3/17).


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