Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are an important global health priority because of their devastating impact on women and infants and their inter-relationships with HIV/AIDS. STIs and HIV are linked by biological interactions and because both infections occur in the same populations. Infection with certain STIs can increase the risk of HIV acquisition and transmission as well as alter the course of disease progression. In addition, STIs can cause long term health problems, particularly in women and infants. Some of the health complications that arise from STIs include pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, tubal or ectopic pregnancy, cervical cancer, and perinatal or congenital infections in infants born to infected mothers.
Quick Facts
Key points about STIs in the United States |
Kinds of STIs
AIDS/HIV
Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Genital Herpes
Human Papillomavirus and Genital Warts
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Syphilis
Trichomoniasis
Vaginitis |
NIAIDs Role in STI Research
NIAID supports research for more effective prevention and treatment approaches to control STIs, including the following:
- Basic research on pathogenesis, immunity, and molecular and structural biology of sexually transmitted pathogens and the impact of STIs in various populations
- Development of better and more rapid diagnostics
- Research for safe and effective vaccines, topical microbicides, therapeutics, and strategies for preventing and treating STIs and their complications
In addition to its key research areas, NIAID addresses emerging issues related to STIs. For example, antimicrobial resistance has impeded the treatment of several STIs, most notably gonorrhea. NIAID supports research to better understand the mechanisms of resistance and discover alternate treatment options.
More on NIAID's Role in preventing and controlling STIs | |
News and Events
Scientists Sequence Genome of Parasite Responsible for Common Sexually Transmitted Infection–Jan. 11, 2007
Adult Male Circumcision Significantly Reduces Risk of Acquiring HIV; Trials in Kenya and Uganda Stopped Early–Dec. 13, 2006
Statement from the NIH on World AIDS Day; NIH Announces First World AIDS Day Awards–Dec. 1, 2006
All Sexually Transmitted Infections News Releases