Sexually transmitted infections are spiking in the U.S. & Ohio ranks among the highest
In alarming health news, Ohio is ranked number 14 in the U.S. for sexually transmitted infections (STI), with a particularly high number of syphilis cases.
Syphilis cases in Ohio reached a six-year high in 2023, with nearly an 80% increase since 2018, 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.
Ohio is in the upper third of states for general STI prevalence.
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 reflects a dire national trend. The national infection rates remain 90% higher than they were in 2004. Ohio’s STI rates are relatively high compared to other states, yet they are still significantly lower than those of the top-ranking states.
- 912 cases of HIV
459 cases of Monkeypox
31,211 cases of chlamydia
There is no specific case number of primary and secondary syphilis, yet cases reached a six-year high in 2023, with an 80% increase since 2018
31,490 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. Ohio 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 Ohio Department of 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.
