Global sexual health statistics revealed in a report from WHO

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recently released its annual report on the state of sexual health globally, which includes some interesting statistics on sexually transmitted infections (STIs).   STIs are commonly spread by vaginal, anal or oral sexual contact, however some STIs can also be transmitted from a mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.

Thirty or more different bacteria, viruses, and parasites are known to be transmitted through sexual contact. Eight of these pathogens relate to the highest incidence of STIs. Syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis are four that can be cured. The four infections that are incurable including Hepatitis B, HIV, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Herpes simplex virus (HSV).  Many STIs can have long reaching health implications if left untreated, so early testing and diagnosis is important.

Latest Statistics

On November 22, 2021, the World Health Organization reported the following:

• More than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day globally, the majority of which are asymptomatic. Asymptomatic means there is an absence of symptoms.
• More than 500 million people aged 15 to 49 years are estimated to have a genital infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
• Each year there are an estimated 374 million new infections with one of four STIs including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and trichomoniasis.
• Nearly 1 million pregnant women were estimated to be infected with syphilis in 2016, resulting in over 350,000 adverse birth outcomes including 200,000 stillbirths and newborn deaths.
• HPV infection was associated with 570,000 cases of cervical cancer in 2018, and over 311,000 cervical cancer deaths each year.
• STIs have a direct impact on sexual and reproductive health through stigmatisation, cancers, infertility, and pregnancy complications. They can increase the risk of HIV.
• Drug resistance, especially for gonorrhoea, is a major threat to lessening the burden of STIs globally.

What STIs can you be tested for?

The latest statistics show just how important early and regular testing, diagnosis and treatment is for your sexual health. Better2Know provides a wide range of tests for STIs and STDs. Whether you just want peace of mind, you are concerned about a recent incident, or you have worrying symptoms, we can assist you. Should you wish to have a comprehensive check-up, we offer an array of STI screens, designed by our medical team.

You can choose the following individual STI tests:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhoea
• Herpes
• HIV
• HPV (Genital Warts)
• Cervical Cancer
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• Syphilis
• Mycoplasma
• Ureaplasma
• Trichomonas
• Gardnerella

Many tests can be done by urine or blood, removing the need for uncomfortable swabs. We offer urine testing for Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea and many other STIs with results available in 2 days.

How can you gain peace of mind about your sexual health?

Better2Know can assist you in taking care of your sexual health. If you are concerned about STIs then speak with one of our well-trained personal advisors confidentially today by phone or live chat. Our dedicated team is here for you 24 hours a day, seven days a week to give you peace of mind about your sexual health. We can arrange confidential STI testing at a clinic near you, with a private nurse visit, or you can order a convenient home test kit.

Sources

[1] WHO: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)