Introduction and Goals
The number of cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), commonly called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), continues to increase dramatically worldwide. STIs are critical global and national health priorities because of the devastating impact on women and infants, and the interrelationships with HIV/AIDS. STIs can lead to infertility, tubal pregnancy, cervical cancer, low birth weight, congenital/perinatal infections, other chronic conditions such as neurosyphilis, and increased risk of HIV infection.
Plans, Priorities, and Goals
NIAID supports research designed to prevent and control STIs. These approaches include
- The development and licensure of vaccines, topical microbicides, and treatments for the microbes that cause STIs
- Understanding the long-term health impact that sexually transmitted pathogens have in various populations
- Stimulating basic research on the pathogenesis, immunity, and structural biology of these pathogens
- Developing better and more rapid diagnostics
Strategic Plans
back to top