Rates of sexually transmitted diseases are climbing, increasing the number of people at risk. Chlamydia cases have nearly doubled since 2000, while gonorrhea cases have surged by 50% in that timeframe. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, syphilis rates are now at levels not seen since the 1950s.
That being said, the prevalence of STIs varies across different regions of the United States.
Using CDC data, Stacker examined which counties in Arizona reported the highest rates of sexually transmitted diseases. Counties were ranked primarily on chlamydia rates, since it’s the most commonly reported STI, with gonorrhea and syphilis figures used as tiebreakers. The focus here is on bacterial infections that can be treated, excluding viral infections like HIV and herpes. The data reflects the most recent 2021 figures at the county level and incorporates 2022 state and national data. It’s worth noting that cases of congenital syphilis, which are inherited from the mother, are not included.
Condoms remain the most effective means of preventing the spread of STIs among individuals with multiple partners, but studies indicate a decline in condom use among heterosexual, bisexual, and gay males.
During the HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 1990s, public health campaigns promoting condom usage played a significant role in reducing the virus’s spread. However, today, there are additional methods; for instance, PrEP and other medications can lower the risk of contracting HIV by up to 99%.
Although recent data is lacking, a CDC survey from 2011 to 2015 revealed that fewer than half of unmarried men reported using condoms during their last sexual encounter.
Among high school students who are sexually active, the percentage using condoms dropped from 60% in 2011 to 52% in 2021. While a third of these students reported using hormonal contraceptives, only 10% utilized both condoms and contraception together. While methods like pills and IUDs effectively prevent pregnancy, they do nothing to stop the spread of STIs.
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are bacterial infections that can be treated with antibiotics, yet they can lead to long-term health complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility if not addressed. The issue here is that many STIs don’t always show clear symptoms.
The CDC advises annual testing for cisgender women, transgender men, and individuals with varying sexual histories. It also recommends yearly testing for men who have sexual partners of the same sex. Those who frequently engage with anonymous partners should get tested every 3-6 months, and anyone exhibiting symptoms should always seek testing.
While the CDC notes limited evidence that screening straight men effectively reduces transmission rates, their constrained budget focuses on programs that support the most vulnerable groups. Still, some public health advocates argue that testing should be available to everyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
National Survey of Family Growth data suggests that men tend to have more sexual partners than women, leading to the idea that managing STIs across sexual networks could help contain their spread.
Looking ahead, a new pill, DoxyPEP, may aid in decreasing STI transmission. It can be taken within 24 to 72 hours after unprotected sex to prevent STIs from becoming more transmissible or symptomatic. The CDC has released guidelines recommending it for men who have sex with men and transgender women. Originally approved for treating inhalation of charcoal, doctors can also prescribe it for off-label use.
Explore how Arizona’s STI infection rates stack up on a national level and check out the counties with the highest rates.
