Trends in STI prevalence and testing guidelines
In a recent interview, Cheruba Prabakar, MD, FACOG, shed light on the rising prevalence of sexually transmitted infections in the United States and the need for improved awareness and testing, particularly for overlooked conditions such as trichomoniasis.
In a recent interview, Cheruba Prabakar, MD, FACOG, discussed trends in sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
In the United States, a slow increase in STI prevalence has been observed over time, with 1 in 5 US individuals presenting with an STI. This rise has continued following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and improved testing mechanisms have allowed for more cases to be identified. Common STIs include gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis.
There have been strict guidelines about STI testing, stating that testing should be performed for diseases such as HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Guidelines have also provided strict timelines for STI testing, including recommending gonorrhea and chlamydia testing for all patients aged under 25 years.
Other STIs, such as trichomoniasis, do not receive the proper amount of testing. There are currently no requirements for this condition to be reported to the state, and patients may be unaware whether they have an STI because of being asymptomatic. According to Prabakar, awareness about when to get tested and potential symptoms needs to increase.
Trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral STI in the United States. Symptoms of the condition include discharge, irritation, cervical bleeding, painful sex, and general discomfort. Additionally, the risk of obtaining other STIs is increased among patients with trichomoniasis. This indicates a need to identify and treat the condition.
To improve education about STI testing and treatment options, Prabakar recommended a broader campaign for education among providers and young patients. Conditions such as trichomoniasis are not given the same amount of attention as other STIs, but patients can be educated about these STIs in school, college, and the exam room.
Patients should also be made aware about the repercussions of STIs. Many STIs have long-term consequences that many patients are unaware of, making it vital to educate these patients and improve their access to STI testing.
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