STIs Are Increasing: How to Stay Informed and Proactive Amid Rising Rates
t’s no secret that STIs are on the rise. The @cdcgov released data from the 2021 Surveillance Report today which revealed that STIs are on the rise for the eighth year in a row.
I’ve noticed a pattern over the years: When the CDC releases data related to increasing STIs, news outlets swarm to pick up stories. Usually, the media focuses on headlines that drive traffic rather than educational efforts.
While it’s true that over 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were reported in 2021 (CDC, 2023), dousing articles in fear and stigma does little to reduce transmission.
Follow these tips instead:
1. Check-in with Yourself: Did you have an adverse reaction to news articles that detail increasing STI rates? While STIs can have long-term effects if left untreated, a lack of access and education is what truly harms us all. Use this time as a reflective point in your sexual health practices.
2. Get an Updated STI Screening: if it’s been over three months and you are sexually involved with multiple partners, it’s time for an updated panel. The CDC outlines basic guidelines for testing, but check with your provider for more personalized recommendations.
3. Educate Yourself (and Your Friends): news articles tend to lure readers through stigma and stereotypes about STIs rather than reality. If the group chat is catering to fear rather than resources, take a stand and interrupt.