Over a Million Daily Sexually Transmitted Infections Globally

Globally, over one million individuals acquire a sexually transmitted infection (STI) each day, with the majority being curable but often asymptomatic. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 374 million new infections of four curable STIs—chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis—occurred in 2020.

These infections, caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites, are primarily transmitted through sexual contact. Some STIs can also pass from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Eight major pathogens are responsible for the significant burden of STIs. While bacterial infections like syphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and gonorrhea are treatable, viral infections such as hepatitis B, herpes, HIV, and HPV require ongoing management or treatment.

STIs can lead to severe health consequences, including infertility, cervical cancer, and an increased risk of HIV. In 2022, an estimated 8 million adults contracted syphilis, and approximately 13% of individuals aged 15-49 were living with herpes simplex virus type 2. HPV infections contributed to over 311,000 cervical cancer deaths annually.

Vaccinations against hepatitis B and HPV offer effective protection against these viral infections. Consistent and correct use of condoms remains a key preventive measure against most STIs, though they do not protect against infections causing sores outside the genital area. The development of treatments and vaccines for other STIs remains a priority for global health initiatives.