Resurgence of "Forgotten" STDs Sparks Alarm Among Health Experts
Health experts are raising the alarm about a resurgence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that were once thought to be declining. The trend, driven by factors like dating apps and changing sexual behaviors, is posing a significant challenge to public health efforts.
A Rising Tide:
While HIV rates have decreased thanks to medical advancements, rates of other STDs are climbing. Officials are particularly concerned about the re-emergence of classic STDs like syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HPV.
At Ho Chi Minh City Dermatology Hospital, syphilis rates have become the second most common reason for STD-related visits.
"Although HIV rates have decreased due to advances in medicine, the rate of sexually transmitted infections continues to rise. In particular, there has been a resurgence of seemingly forgotten classic sexually transmitted diseases, such as syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and HPV. Special attention should be paid to the increase in congenital syphilis," warned Dr. Nguyen Thi Phan Thuy, Director of Ho Chi Minh City Dermatology Hospital.
A Focus on Syphilis:
Syphilis, in particular, is causing concern. The WHO reports that over one million people are newly infected each year, with many cases being asymptomatic. This trend is mirrored in Ho Chi Minh City, where syphilis rates among gay men have increased from 6.7% in 2011 to 9.3% in 2022.
The hospital has even seen cases of ocular syphilis and breast syphilis, highlighting the potential for severe complications from untreated infections.
Gonorrhea on the Rise:
Gonorrhea rates are also on the rise, with men being three times more likely to be infected than women.
"All these trends have created a huge challenge for the health sector to proactively find early solutions to control risk factors. Need to raise awareness within the community and improve the health system to improve treatment efficiency as well as effectiveness in controlling and preventing sexually transmitted diseases" – emphasized Dr. Thuy.
A Call for Action:
Experts are urging for increased public awareness about these rising STD rates, emphasizing the importance of safe sex practices and regular testing.
Improving access to healthcare and education, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, is crucial in combating this trend.
Additional Contributing Factors:
The ease of connecting with potential partners through dating apps and online platforms is cited as a key contributor to the increase in STDs. This increased access to casual encounters increases the risk of contracting and spreading these infections.
The global community must work together to address this public health threat through comprehensive strategies that combine education, prevention, and accessible treatment.
## the Re-Emergence of “Forgotten” STDs: A Growing Threat to Global health
**Health experts sound the alarm as rates of classic sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis and gonorrhea surge, prompting calls for increased awareness, prevention, and access to treatment.**
The world has made notable strides in combating HIV/AIDS thanks to advancements in medicine and public health initiatives. Though, a troubling trend is emerging: the resurgence of other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) once thought to be in decline. Experts are particularly concerned about the rise of syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HPV, posing a significant challenge to global health efforts.
To shed light on this concerning trend, we spoke with **Dr. Nguyen Thi Phan Thuy**, Director of Ho Chi Minh City Dermatology Hospital, a leading authority on STDs in Vietnam. Dr.Thuy has witnessed firsthand the alarming increase in these infections and the urgent need for a comprehensive response.
### The Return of Familiar Foes: syphilis and Gonorrhea
**World today News:** Dr. Thuy, yoru hospital has reported a significant increase in syphilis cases. Can you elaborate on this trend and its potential impact?
**Dr. Thuy:** “Although HIV rates have decreased due to advances in medicine,the rate of sexually transmitted infections continues to rise. In particular, there has been a resurgence of seemingly forgotten classic sexually transmitted diseases, such as syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and HPV. Special attention should be paid to the increase in congenital syphilis.”
**World Today News:** What are some of the most concerning aspects of this syphilis resurgence?
**Dr. Thuy:** ”**We are seeing more cases of ocular syphilis and breast syphilis, highlighting the potential for severe complications if these infections are left untreated.** The fact that many syphilis cases are asymptomatic further complicates the picture, as individuals may unknowingly spread the infection.”
**World Today News: **How has gonorrhea factored into this overall trend?
**Dr. Thuy:** “Gonorrhea rates are also rising, with men being three times more likely to be infected than women. This disparity emphasizes the need for targeted outreach and education efforts within specific demographics.”
### The Digital Age’s Impact: Dating Apps and Sexual Networks
**World Today News:** Many experts cite the rise of dating apps and increased casual sexual encounters as contributing factors to the spread of STDs. Do you see a link between these trends?
**Dr. Thuy:** “Absolutely. The ease of connecting with potential partners through online platforms has undoubtedly increased the number of casual encounters. This, coupled with a potential decrease in condom use amongst certain demographics, creates a perfect storm for the spread of STDs.”
### A Call for Action: Addressing the Public Health Crisis
**World today News:** What steps can be taken to address this growing public health crisis?
**Dr. Thuy:** “**We need a multi-pronged approach that combines increased public awareness about safe sex practices,accessible and affordable testing,and comprehensive treatment programs.** Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications and further transmission.”
**World Today News:** What role can governments and healthcare providers play in tackling this issue?
**Dr. Thuy:** “Governments must prioritize funding for sexual health programs and invest in research to develop new prevention and treatment strategies. Healthcare providers need to be equipped with the knowledge and resources to effectively diagnose and manage STDs, including providing confidential and non-judgemental care.”
**World Today News:** What message would you like to share with our readers?
**Dr. Thuy:** ”STDs are a preventable and treatable health issue. Don’t be afraid to get tested, practice safe sex, and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms. We all have a role to play in protecting ourselves and our communities.”
The resurgence of “forgotten” STDs is a wake-up call that demands immediate attention.By raising awareness, promoting safe sex practices, and advocating for accessible healthcare, we can mitigate this growing public health threat.
### Connect & Learn More
**Curious to learn more about STDs and how to protect yourself and your loved ones? Check out these informative resources:**
* [world Health organization (WHO) STD Fact Sheets](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis))
* [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) STD Facts](https://www.cdc.gov/std/default.htm)
