Sexually transmitted infections are spiking in the U.S. & Georgia ranks among the highest
In alarming health news, Georgia is ranked number nine in the U.S. for sexually transmitted infections (STI), with a particularly high number of HIV cases.
Additionally, according to a recent study conducted by UDS, Georgia scored an 8.11 out of 10 in states worst affected by STIs, reflecting a significant health crisis endangering some of the youngest residents.
While there has been a slight decrease in some areas, the overall trend for STIs shows significant increases in rates over the past several years reflecting a larger trend across the country.
Georgia is the number one state where HIV is most prevalent.
These health challenges disproportionately affect young people ages 15 to 29, who account for approximately half of all new STI cases in the United States annually. This data is especially concerning since this demographic only makes up a quarter of the sexually active population.
The numbers reflect a complicated picture
The number of new reported STI cases may seem dire, but recent data shows some encouraging trends. The number of chlamydia cases, for example, has decreased in Georgia and this aligns with a national trend of declining STI rates.
2,100 cases of HIV
1,904 cases of Monkeypox
71,294 cases of chlamydia
2,210 cases of primary and secondary syphilis
30,307 cases of gonorrhea
What can we do?
There are steps to take to protect against and reduce STI:
Get tested at your local health department or Planned Parenthood office, especially if you are sexually active.
Practice safe sex, including consistent and correct condom use. Georgia offers a mail-in program to receive contraceptives at your home.
Talk openly with partners about sexual health and STI prevention.
Seek prompt treatment if you suspect you may have an STI. Most places that offer testing also provide treatment.
Having a sexually transmitted infection is neither shameful nor life-altering, so educate yourself and seek treatment as soon as you notice anything different.
The Georgia Department of Public Health offers resources for testing, treatment and education.
If you’d like to share any resources or programs that could be helpful, email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on Instagram.
This story was originally published February 13, 2025 at 3:52 PM.
