Get Latest Internet Marketing News, Views and Methods All in One Place: Identifying the Driving Forces Behind the Spread of STIs in America

In the United States, 1 in 5 people have a sexuality transmitted infection (STI). This number is staggering, and it can be scary and uncertain to live with one of these diseases. Because of this, it is important to understand the factors that contribute to one’s likelihood of contracting these infections and what we can do to prevent them in our own lives. Where one lives, what they do, who they are and who they love are primary drivers in the spread of STIs in the US.

Different areas and metros are at risk for different types of STIs in the United States. For example, those living in southern regions or in and around larger metropolitan areas are at a greater risk for contracting an STI. Additionally, diseases like HIV are more common in the northeast, while syphilis is more common on the west coast.

One’s lifestyle choices are also a major factor in the spread of STIs. Having unprotected sex or using ineffective methods of contraception are a major driving force behind the spread. In fact, the risk for syphilis is over 50% per 10,000 sexual acts when having unprotected sex. Having several sexual partners can also increase risk, as this changes one’s likelihood of not knowing their partner’s sexual history or testing habits. Dating app users are also at risk, as they are 1.3x more likely to test positive for an STI despite being 1.8x more likely to get STI screening. Substance abuse also plays a role, as impaired decision making has been positively associated with risky sexual behaviors leading to STI diagnoses.

One’s background and identity also provides explanation as to why one might be more at risk for an STI. For example, black people are more susceptible to gonorrhea than other groups. Factors like income, age, and overall background have also been found to contribute. Those that have an income below the poverty level are more likely to report an STI, as are younger people. Additionally, research has shown that women are more likely to suffer from an STI compared to men, and that graduating from college may reduce one’s risk of an STI. Overall, studies show that young adult males between the ages of 15 and 24 are the most susceptible to these infections.

Who one loves and the type of sex being had are significant factors in the spread of STIs. Heterosexual couples and homosexual couples experience intimacy differently, which determines which types of infections they are most susceptible to and to what degree. Overall, STI positivity is the highest amongst gay and bisexual cisgender men at 35%. Additionally, type of sex also matters, as vaginal sex often carries less risk than anal intercourse.

Although abstinence is the only true way to avoid STIs, there are several other methods one can use to practice safe sex when actively intimate with others. Proper testing before a new relationship, using protection, and vaccines or post-exposure medications are widely available and should be used to promote healthy sexual relationships.