Rise in number of cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis in US

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released its report on sexually transmitted diseases. The report does not contain many things to cheer about. Number of cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea in the USA has increased between 2013 and 2014. A rise in number of cases in syphilis has also been witnessed in 2014.

Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are the most common STDs in America. It is mandatory for health departments to report new cases of the diseases to the CDC. Chlamydia is quite dangerous disease and can damage a woman’s reproductive system.

In 2014, there were more than 1.4 million cases of chlamydia. In the case of gonorrhea, there were around 350,000 cases. There were nearly 20,000 cases of syphilis. All these three STDs are curable if medicine is taken on time. One can reduce the risk of suffering from any three of them by adopting the practice of having safe sex.

Lead author of the report, Dr. Gail Bolan, director of CDC’s Division of Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention, said there could be many cases that are going unreported as the infections do not cause symptoms. Majority of the cases are seen in people between 15 and 29 years of age.

The report has unveiled that there are many states, which have cut funding for STD programs. These cutbacks can have negative effect on those having no or little access to health care.

“We know there is still a lot of homophobia and stigma toward our gay communities in the U.S., and a lot of people may prefer to see a provider … that provides culturally sensitive services”, affirmed Bolan. The report also includes many recommendations.