Unveiling the silent threats of sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections are some of the most common infections Americans are facing these days.

While many have focused on COVID during the past several years, these STIs have been on the rise, posing a significant public health challenge and financial burden to the healthcare system. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the most recent data shows 1 in 5 people in the U.S. has an STI, costing the American healthcare system nearly $16 billion in direct medical costs.

Chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis are three of the most common STIs in the U.S. The good news is they are also the most treatable infections. Early detection is key with these infections, because patients may not have any symptoms while they carry them. For example, trichomoniasis is an STI caused by the organism trichomonas, and it only produces symptoms in 30% of people, meaning 70% of people infected will have no symptoms at all. These silent infections often go unnoticed, causing long-term health issues if left untreated.

For women in particular, untreated gonorrhea and chlamydia can lead to serious consequences including pelvic inflammatory disease, abnormal pregnancies, infertility and chronic pelvic pain.

These three infections may be easily spread from person to person and hide in the body, but they are also easily treated. If detected, a healthcare provider can start antibiotics for fast treatment to avoid long-term health complications.

As medical director of Atracare’s urgent cares, I understand that testing early and routinely is paramount to the health of the individual and to our community. We sought out a method to provide the most accurate and rapid STI testing at our offices.

As a physician myself, I wanted to be able to provide my patients results before they leave their office visit. After much searching, we now have a test for females that will allow our providers to test for and detect gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis with results in fewer than 30 minutes, with or without having symptoms.

Regular screenings and prompt medical attention are essential steps in combating the spread of these common but often overlooked STIs. Through rapid diagnosis, judicious antibiotic administration, and vigilant partner notification strategies, we can collectively curtail the morbidity and transmission associated with these silent infections.