History of U.S. military contributions to the study of sexually transmitted diseases

Abstract

Sexually transmitted diseases have posed a threat to military service members throughout history. Among these diseases, syphilis, gonorrhea, and human immunodeficiency virus infections have accounted for the most significant morbidity and mortality rates in the U.S. military. In response, military researchers have made significant contributions to the treatment and prevention of these diseases. We review the impact of these diseases through the history of the U.S. Armed Forces and review selected sexually transmitted disease-oriented publications of U.S. military researchers.