MODERN METHODS OF PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF STIS
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) represent a significant global public health challenge. Each year, hundreds of millions of new STI cases occur worldwide, placing a heavy burden on healthcare systems and societies. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1 million curable STIs are acquired every day globally [1]. This translates to about 374 million new infections annually with one of the four major curable STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, or trichomoniasis) in people aged 15–49 [1]. Additionally, viral STIs are widespread: for example, over 38 million people are living with HIV/AIDS globally [2], an estimated 500 million people have genital herpes (HSV) [1], and human papillomavirus (HPV) causes around 311,000 cervical cancer deaths each year [1]. Beyond their prevalence, STIs carry serious consequences — they can cause infertility, pregnancy complications, cancer, and increase the risk of HIV acquisition [1]. STIs also impose social and economic costs: they contribute to stigma, discrimination, and psychological distress, affecting individuals’ quality of life and straining healthcare resources [3]. Despite being largely preventable and treatable, STIs remain a global health priority due to rising infection rates in many regions and challenges such as antimicrobial resistance. In fact, recent trends indicate resurgences of STIs in several countries following disruptions in health services (e.g., during the COVID-19 pandemic) [4]. The global importance of this topic is underscored by international calls for action and ambitious targets to curb STI epidemics by 2030. Ensuring effective prevention and treatment of STIs worldwide is crucial for improving sexual and reproductive health, achieving health equity, and reducing the overall burden of disease.