Resurgence of sexually transmitted infections in India

Abstract

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are increasing throughout the world including India at present. In 1960s and 70s, the bacterial STIs were predominant than the viral STIs. The discovery of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and its rampant spread changed the situation with the increase of viral STIs in 1980s and 90s. There was a declining trend of viral and bacterial STIs in late 1990s to 2010. During the past two decades, HIV infection is on the declining trend, but other viral STIs are widely prevalent with insufficient decline. Currently, there is resurgence of syphilis and emergence of drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhea. The interplay of various factors may have a role in this resurgence and this may act as an alarming sign of an impending epidemic. Hence, stringent monitoring of the trend of STIs including antibiotic resistance, appropriate management of STIs, and proper implementation of STI control program is needed. This will tackle the current situation and prevent the further spread of STIs.

Keywords: Bacterial sexually transmitted infection; gonorrhea; resurgence; syphilis; viral sexually transmitted infection.