Over one million sexually transmitted infections daily worldwide: WHO

June 9, 2019

There are more than one million new cases of curable sexually transmitted infections recorded daily around the globe, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

In a statement, WHO reported more than 376 million new cases of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis, and syphilis are being recorded annually.

"We’re seeing a concerning lack of progress in stopping the spread of sexually transmitted infections worldwide,” said WHO - Universal Health Coverage and the Life-Course Executive Director Peter Salama.

Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite during sexual intercourse; while chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhoea are bacterial infections.

WHO said STIs spread through unprotected sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

Symptoms of STI include genital lesions, urethral or vaginal discharge, pain when urinating and, in women, bleeding between periods.

"If untreated, they can lead to serious and chronic health effects that include neurological and cardiovascular disease, infertility, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirths, and increased risk of HIV," warned WHO. DMS