The State of STIs: Syphilis On the Rise

STIs On the Rise: CDC Reports

Are you taking the right precautions when hooking up? The CDC recently released data that shows more than 2.5 million cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia in the United States. The CDC states that STIs must become a national priority. While gonorrhea cases declined for the first time in at least a decade and chlamydia cases remained level, syphilis and congenital syphilis are on an alarming rise, and not just from gay men. Disruptions to STI treatment during COVID have added to the increase.  Also, the CDC reiterates that many STIs often do not show symptoms, so regular screening is imperative for those engaging in sexual activity.

NEW! 2022 surveillance data underscore that STIs must be a public health priority. More than 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea & syphilis were reported in the U.S. https://t.co/lszR5gc6hK #STIreport pic.twitter.com/4FFCwuJZ89

— CDC STD (@CDCSTD) January 30, 2024

In new data reflecting 2022, cases of syphilis reached the greatest number of cases reported since 1950. Cases of syphilis reached an all-time low in 2000 and 2001. Since then, rates of syphilis have increased among both men and women, among all age groups, and in all regions of the United States. Men, and especially queer men, were seen as the major aggressors in increasing syphilis rates. Now that's changed. The CDC reports that women giving birth in the US are now three times more likely to have syphilis than they were in 2016. This has led to a staggering increase in congenital syphilis - when the baby becomes infected before birth. Clinic hours, lack of rapid test use, and access to medical care have been considered the major factors in untreated cases.

#Syphilis is increasing among women. Know how to protect yourself: https://t.co/eLiup3ay0Z. pic.twitter.com/odqBRXhgGS

— CDC STD (@CDCSTD) February 16, 2024

This last year, Biden's administration announced a federal task force to address the surging syphilis epidemic and allowed for a temporary import lift on alternative medications for treatment, they also instituted community workshops for better prevention and awareness. Congressional budget cuts have been made to blame for drug shortages and outdated prevention and treatment practices. The rate in the Hispanic community was reported as almost twice as high as the White community, and the Black community was more than four times the rate.

Encouraging young people to get tested and treated for STIs and HIV during #STIweek? Check out the #GYT campaign! https://t.co/Y3bQgeIv5Y pic.twitter.com/0Ad2dFYie5

— CDC STD (@CDCSTD) February 21, 2024

It is recommended in order to reduce the transmission of STIs, to be aware of any cuts and or abrasions on the body, even in the rectum (for rimming) and to change condoms if you are switching partners, and to clean up between positions. Regular testing is a must for anyone active. As a reminder, syphilis can be spread from rimming as well due to the bacteria around the anus.

Click here for the CDC's site on STI prevention and testing.

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