Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)
The global burden of sexually transmitted infections
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have a significant global impact, with over 1 million acquired daily. In 2020, 374 million new infections were estimated, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis [1]. This number does not account for genital herpes infections caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV), which are estimated to be more than 500 million in people between 15-49 years old [2], nor the 254 million people living with chronic hepatitis B [3]. STIs can lead to infertility, pregnancy complications, or beyond the infection itself to serious consequences as an increased risk of HIV acquisition, cancer or death. Considering these facts, it is hard to deny the huge negative impact STIs can have on a society’s healthcare and economic system.
Real-time PCR for accurate STI diagnosis
Accurate and rapid diagnosis, effective treatment and widespread surveillance are crucial in lowering the burden these diseases present. Diagnosing STIs is challenging due to asymptomatic cases, non-specific symptoms, and variations in testing availability. Molecular technologies allow accurate diagnosis, especially as STI infections are often asymptomatic. PCR-based assays benefit from the high sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and the multiplexing capabilities this technology offers. As a healthcare provider our portfolio includes a number of state-of-the-art molecular tests for STI diagnostics.
References
[1] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis)
[2] James C, Harfouche M, Welton NJ, et al. Herpes simplex virus: global infection prevalence and incidence estimates, 2016. Bull World Health Organ. 2020;98(5):315-329.
[3] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-b
