The Burden of STIs

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a public health concern in the United States. Although often associated with younger adults, anyone who is sexually active can be at risk at any age. Learning how STIs spread and taking steps toward prevention and regular testing can help protect your health and the health of others.

In 2024, more than 2.2 million cases of syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia were reported in the U.S. according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Both gonorrhea and chlamydia rates have decreased. The most alarming concerns center around the syphilis and congenital syphilis epidemics. 

STIs - Age Is No Protection

STIs may seem like a young person's problem. Not true. Anyone who has sex could catch an STI. Never assume that the person you're having sex with can't have an infection just because they're an older adult. What should you know?

• Most STIs are passed through contact with the body fluids, genital sores or blood of an infected person.
• You're at risk if you:
  • Have had sex with even one person who has an STI
  • Have multiple sex partners (this increases the chance that one of them has an STI)
  • Have had sex with a new or casual partner without practicing safer sex (using condoms or dental dams)
  • Think that any of the above could be true for a past or present sex partner

Ways To Reduce Your Risk

Reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections is an important to protect your overall health and well