How common are STDs?
In sub-Saharan Africa, 65 million new cases of curable STDs occur among adults every year (WHO 1998). It is estimated that for every 1,000 people in sub-Saharan Africa, 254 people become infected with a curable STD each year. It is estimated that for women ages 15-44, STDs (excluding HIV) are the second most common cause of healthy life lost, after the risks of death and infirmity associated with childbearing.
STDs are very common in the U.S. With more than 12 million people in the U.S. infected each year, at least 1 out of 4 people will be infected with a STD at some point in his or her life. In the U.S., there are approximately 4 million new chlamydia infections each year, over 40 million people have herpes and 30 million have genital warts. Youth are particularly at risk for STDs. 2/3rds of reportable cases of STDs occur in people under 25 years of age.
STDs are very common in the United States. With more than 12 million people in the U.S. infected each year, at least 1 person in 4 will be infected with a STD at some point in his or her life. In the United States, there is approximately 4 million new chlamydia infections a year, over 40 million people have herpes and 30 million have genital warts.
