Although the number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remains high, the epidemic could be slowing, according to the latest report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). More than 2.4 million cases of STIs were reported in 2023 with syphilis cases increasing by just 1% after years of double-digit increases. There was a downward trend in congenital syphilis with just a 3% increase for the year, compared with 30% annual increases in recent years. Gonorrhea cases dropped for the second year in a row, down 7% while also sliding below pre pandemic levels.
The right direction: Despite what CDC calls “a glimmer of hope,” the long-term trends show a 90% increase in STIs since 2004. The agency points out that relatively new prevention options, home tests, and coordinated responses are among the practical strategies that could further influence trends.