Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevalence in the United States and the Relationship to Social Determinants of Health

Abstract

Rates of sexually transmitted infections (STI) are on the rise in the United States. Some STIs are at an all-time high. Research has shown that there is a higher prevalence of STIs among some racial and ethnic groups as compared with whites. Factors contributing to this endemic have been explored. Although some individual-level risk factors have previously been identified, data overwhelmingly suggest that social determinants of health are key factors in the overall increase in STIs. Additionally, these social factors have contributed to disparities in STI acquisition. Population-specific interventions targeting social factors are necessary in reducing the rates of STIs.

Keywords: Disparities; Income; Poverty; Race; Sexually transmitted infections; Social determinants of health.