Confronting Rising STIs in the Era of PrEP and Treatment as Prevention

This study aims to review the epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) and suggest control measures.Recent FindingsDespite declines in new HIV diagnosis, bacterial STIs among MSM have dramatically risen since the late 1990s. This increase occurred concurrent with introduction of effective antiretroviral therapy, the advent of electronic mechanisms for meeting sex partners and population-level changes in sexual behavior, including decreased condom use. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is now further diminishing condom use, though its impact on STIs is uncertain. A plan to confront the MSM STI epidemic should include increased HIV/STI testing promoted through expanded public health clinical infrastructure, health care system reform to improve the care of gender and sexual minorities and promote low-barrier care, re-invigorated condom promotion, and scientific innovation.SummaryThere is an urgent need to implement new STI control measures while continuing to expand PrEP use.
Source: Current HIV/AIDS Reports - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research