Utility

New Guidelines To Improve Testing And Diagnosis Of Sexually Transmitted Infections Released By WHO

STI & HIV 2023 World Congress: WHO Emphasizes Improved Access to STI Treatment and Diagnosis

The STI & HIV 2023 World Congress, held in Chicago, witnessed the World Health Organisation (WHO) releasing new guidelines on sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The global health agency stressed the urgent need for better access to STI treatment and diagnosis. The event, spanning until July 27, aimed to address the growing concerns surrounding the prevalence of STIs worldwide.

Alarming STI Statistics

The WHO’s decision to release these guidelines comes at a critical time when the world faces over a million new STI cases reported daily. The situation is particularly concerning in many low and middle-income countries where limited access to proper diagnosis impedes effective STI monitoring. The asymptomatic nature of most STIs also adds to the difficulty in identifying and treating these infections. Notably, the WHO estimates that more than 500 million individuals between the ages of 15 and 49 years suffer from genital herpes simplex virus (HSV or herpes) infections globally.

Incorporating Point-of-Care Tests for STIs

To combat the challenges posed by limited access to diagnosis, the WHO’s new guidelines advocate for the integration of point-of-care tests for certain STIs. Point-of-care tests are medical diagnostic procedures that can be conducted near or directly where patients are located, also known as bedside testing. This approach is commonly used for tests like blood glucose monitoring and home pregnancy tests. The WHO aims to implement point-of-care testing for diagnosing STIs such as syphilis (Treponema pallidum), Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis. According to the WHO, these tests can significantly reduce healthcare costs, decrease waiting times, expedite the initiation of treatment, enhance treatment accuracy, and improve patient follow-up.

The Most Prevalent STI Pathogens

Data from the WHO reveals that eight pathogens are responsible for the majority of STI cases globally. These pathogens include syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, hepatitis B, herpes simplex virus (HSV), HIV, and human papillomavirus (HPV). Additionally, there are more than 30 known bacteria actively causing these infections.

Recognizing Early STI Symptoms

While each STI may present its unique symptoms, there are common signs that sexually active individuals should be vigilant about. These symptoms include unusual vaginal discharge, painful urination, genital lumps, rashes or lumps around the anus, and blisters or sores in the genital area that can spread.

Complications of STIs

Addressing STIs promptly is crucial as they can lead to severe complications. Some STIs are treatable, but others can have potentially fatal consequences. For instance, herpes, gonorrhoea, and syphilis can increase the risk of contracting HIV. In cases where mothers have STIs, it can result in stillbirth, premature births, congenital defects, and neonatal conjunctivitis. HPV, on the other hand, can lead to cervical and oral cancer. Additionally, gonorrhoea and chlamydia may cause pelvic disease and infertility in women.

The STI & HIV 2023 World Congress held in Chicago served as an essential platform for the WHO to highlight the urgent need for improved access to STI treatment and diagnosis. With STI cases on the rise globally, it is vital for healthcare systems to prioritize early detection, appropriate treatment, and public awareness to curb the spread of these infections and safeguard public health.

Also Read: Hindu Boy Visits Muslim Girlfriend’s House For Marriage Proposal, Girl’s Father Circumcised Him

Malika Sahni

Recent Posts

Hina Khan Hails 11 Years Of PM Modi’s Leadership; Highlights National Progress

As the nation marks 11 years under PM Modi's leadership, actress Hina Khan shares her…

36 mins ago

Subhash Ghai Hails PM Modi’s Transformative Vision For India

Subhash Ghai has praised PM Narendra Modi’s leadership for catalysing India’s growth and changing the…

1 hour ago

India & Central Asia Boost Rare Earth Cooperation At Delhi Meet

India and five Central Asian nations have agreed to deepen cooperation on rare earths and…

2 hours ago

PM Modi’s Beej Se Bazaar Tak Vision Reshapes Indian Agriculture

Prime Minister Modi has redefined Indian agriculture with the ‘Beej Se Bazaar Tak’ vision, transforming…

2 hours ago

EV Sales Cross 4% Mark In May; Signalling Steady Shift To Green Mobility

EV sales topped 4% of passenger vehicle retail in May 2025, signalling growing demand for…

2 hours ago

Self-Reliant Defence Industry Marks India’s Strategic Security Ascent

One year into Modi 3.0, reforms have reduced poverty, strengthened defence, and accelerated the digital…

3 hours ago