Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Articles tagged with Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Has life-saving HIV therapy contributed to increased rates of a sexually transmitted disease?
A study found that HAART led to a resurgence of syphilis in the US, with increases concentrated among men. The availability of HIV treatments improved survival but also changed sexual behavior and public health effects.
European Immunization Week 2026, For every generation, vaccines work: three countries reach 90% HPV vaccination target as Europe steps up action on cancer prevention
Three European countries reach 90% HPV vaccination coverage among girls by age 15, marking progress in cervical cancer prevention. HPV vaccination programmes show significant reductions in infections and precancerous lesions, with early administration increasing full protective potential.
As syphilis cases rise, study links infection with higher risk of stroke, heart attack and other serious cardiovascular problems
A study from Tulane University found that long-term, untreated syphilis increases the risk of serious cardiovascular issues, including stroke, heart attack, and aortic aneurysm. Adults with syphilis were more likely to develop these problems than similar patients without the infection.
Researchers publish landmark infectious disease study in ‘Science’
A new study published in Science reveals that diseases closely related to syphilis originated more than 5,000 years ago and were transmitted from the Americas, challenging long-held European theories. The research uses ancient DNA discoveries from Colombia and Mexico to shed light on human disease evolution and global health.
Exposing a hidden anchor for HIV replication
Scientists at the University of Delaware discovered a previously unknown structural role for the HIV integrase protein, which forms gluey filaments that anchor the RNA genome to the capsid. This discovery provides a promising new target for drug development and could lead to the development of next-generation inhibitors.
Lithium study yields insights in the fight against HIV
A study published in iScience found that lithium can prevent infected cells from reactivating and does so through an unexpected biological mechanism. The findings suggest a potential new approach to treating HIV by targeting a previously unexplored pathway.
Research spotlight: Preventive HIV drugs under prescribed to young women at increased risk
Research reveals disparities in access to PrEP among young cisgender females and males, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve HIV prevention. The study analyzed data from over 7,000 visits to a Boston-based clinic, finding that only 17% of visits received PrEP for under-age females.
A testing paradox for sexually transmitted infections
A new modeling study suggests that regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can successfully reduce their spread, even if individuals on PrEP engage in riskier behavior. The paradoxical findings highlight the importance of careful surveillance data interpretation when evaluating public health interventions.
The Lancet: New single dose oral treatment for gonorrhoea effectively combats drug-resistant infections, trial finds
A new single-dose oral medication called zoliflodacin shows promise as a treatment for antibiotic-resistant gonorrhoea, with over 90% of infections cured at genital sites. The medication is well-tolerated and has the potential to improve global efforts to control drug-resistant gonorrhea infections.
Nonadherence to cervical cancer screening guidelines in commercially insured US adults
A study published in JAMA Network Open reveals low adherence to cervical cancer screening guidelines among commercially insured US adults, with only 7.3% following recommended guidelines. The findings suggest that guideline confusion and lack of incentives are contributing factors to this issue.
AI tips off scientists to new drug target to fight, treat mpox
Researchers used AI to identify a new viral surface protein that triggers the production of neutralizing antibodies, offering a breakthrough for developing effective vaccines and antibody therapies. The discovery could also provide insights into treating smallpox, a related virus posing a bioterrorism risk.
Europe’s hidden HIV crisis: Half of all people living with HIV in Europe are diagnosed late, threatening to undermine the fight against AIDS
Over half (54%) of all HIV diagnoses in Europe in 2024 were made too late for optimal treatment, according to new data from ECDC and WHO/Europe. This critical testing failure is severely jeopardizing the 2030 goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat.
New research confirms HPV vaccination prevents cervical cancer
Two new Cochrane reviews show that HPV vaccines are effective in preventing cervical cancer and pre-cancerous changes, especially when given to young people before they are exposed to the virus. Girls vaccinated before the age of 16 were found to be 80% less likely to develop cervical cancer.
Biomedical Sciences researcher receives nearly $7 million in federal grants to fight STIs
Cynthia Nau Cornelissen has received nearly $7 million in federal grants to combat sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly gonorrhea. The researcher will study the human-specific pathogen Neisseria gonorrhoeae and develop vaccines and therapeutics using innovative approaches.
Nasal therapeutic vaccine for treating cervical cancer
Researchers at Chiba University have developed a nasal therapeutic vaccine targeting E7 oncoprotein, which is produced by high-risk strains of HPV associated with cervical cancer. The vaccine triggers an immune response in the cervical mucosa, providing local protection against pathogens and foreign particles.
Temporary benefit for immune system in early HIV treatment, but dysregulation returns
Research at Amsterdam UMC found that early HIV treatment improves immune system function in the short term but leads to dysregulation in the long term. After six months of treatment, the immune system functions similarly to that of people without HIV, but this improvement is temporary and does not last beyond three years.
UCF researchers developing new easy-to-use viral biosensor test, giving patients more accurate and immediate results
A team of UCF researchers is creating a single low-cost test to detect multiple viruses simultaneously, which may be used in resource-limited settings. The test has the potential to save lives by providing quicker and more accessible results.
Mini-organs reveal how the cervix defends itself
Researchers at Aarhus University used mini-organs to show that cervical epithelial cells actively detect and combat infections, with uninfected cells becoming immune-active. This discovery opens opportunities for mucosal vaccines and targeted treatments against STIs and infertility.
AI model for imaging-based extranodal extension detection and outcome prediction in HPV−positive oropharyngeal cancer
An AI model successfully automates lymph node segmentation and extranodal extension classification from pretreatment CT scans in HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma. Predicted extranodal extension is independently associated with worse oncologic outcomes, highlighting the potential for improved treatment planning.
Population-level effectiveness and herd protection 17 years after HPV vaccine introduction
A 17-year study found robust population-level effectiveness of the HPV vaccine, even among sexually experienced adolescent girls and young women who may not have completed the vaccination series. The study's results suggest that the vaccine offers sustained herd protection against HPV-related diseases.
Study shows HPV vaccine protects vaccinated — and unvaccinated — women
A large study found the HPV vaccine to be highly effective in protecting young women from infections caused by the virus, including those who didn't receive the vaccine. The research also showed clear evidence of herd immunity, suggesting that widespread vaccination can indirectly protect unvaccinated individuals.
Gut infections often overlooked in men who have sex with men
A new review article highlights the need for effective control and prevention strategies for sexually transmitted gut infections, which can persist longer and be harder to treat. The authors emphasize the importance of prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and community-level education and testing.
Blood test identifies HPV-associated head and neck cancers up to 10 years before symptoms
A new liquid biopsy tool, HPV-DeepSeek, can identify HPV-associated head and neck cancer in asymptomatic individuals up to 10 years before diagnosis. The test uses whole-genome sequencing to detect microscopic fragments of HPV DNA in the blood.
One dose of penicillin is as effective as standard three doses in treating early syphilis, according to UAB-led study
Researchers at UAB have published a study suggesting one dose of benzathine penicillin G is as effective as the three-injection regimen at treating early syphilis. The study found that one dose is sufficient to treat patients, reducing time and inconvenience associated with multiple injections.
One dose of antibiotic treats early syphilis as well as three doses
Researchers funded by the National Institutes of Health found that a single injection of benzathine penicillin G successfully treated early syphilis just as well as the three-injection regimen used by many clinicians. Biological markers showed that 76% of participants in the single-dose group had a serologic response to treatment, comp...
Only 37% of US states require sexual education in schools to be medically accurate
Despite federal law requiring some form of sexual education, a patchwork of state-level provisions mandate inaccurate or outdated curricula. Only 19 states require medically accurate instruction, while many states prioritize abstinence over comprehensive sex education.
Study looks for markers that predict risk of severe chlamydia infection
Researchers identified markers in vaginal microbiome that predict severe chlamydia infections, potentially leading to new diagnostics. The study found certain microbial species and cytokine levels correlated with increased risk of ascended chlamydial infection.
Vaccines work: Cohort data from Denmark show real-world evidence of stable protection against HPV-related cervical cancer
A Danish study finds that HPV vaccination has reduced prevalence of high-risk HPV types among vaccinated women, suggesting population immunity. However, non-vaccine types remain common and new infections occur more frequently in vaccinated women than unvaccinated women.
Benefits and risks: informal use of antibiotics to prevent sexually transmitted infections on the rise in key populations in the Netherlands
A recent study in the Netherlands found 15% of men who have sex with men and transgender individuals recently used doxycycline as post- or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), highlighting an increase in informal use. The high intention to use PrEP among the population raises concerns about potential antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and chan...
Study highlights opportunities to strengthen early HIV diagnosis in primary care in Catalonia
The study found that HIV testing rates were higher among men, younger individuals, and migrants, while women, older adults, and those living in rural areas were underdiagnosed. The results also reveal significant differences by socioeconomic level and geographical area, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve adhere...
Multiple testing for infectious diseases key to cutting onward transmission
A new study found that routine testing for multiple infectious diseases among migrants can identify key infections earlier, improving health outcomes and reducing onward transmission. The Leicester screening programme, which tested 4004 migrant patients, revealed new diagnoses of TB, Hepatitis B and C, and HIV.
HIV discovery could open door to long-sought cure
Researchers have uncovered a key reason why HIV remains difficult to cure, revealing that subtle variations in the Rev-RRE axis influence viral replication and latency reactivation. Understanding this regulatory system could help develop strategies to flush out the dormant virus and eliminate it for good.
HIV drug can improve vision in patients with common diabetes complication, clinical trial suggests
Researchers found that an inexpensive HIV drug can improve vision in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) more effectively and at a lower cost than existing treatments. The drug, lamivudine, is taken orally and may represent a game-changing option for millions of patients worldwide.
New blood test developed at Mass General Brigham shows superior sensitivity in detecting HPV-associated head and neck cancers
A new liquid biopsy blood test called HPV-DeepSeek achieved 99% sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing cancer in asymptomatic patients. The test detected fragments of the viral genome and other features in the blood, outperforming current methods in detecting HPV-associated head and neck cancers.
Proof of concept for Amsterdam UMC-led HIV vaccination
Researchers from Amsterdam UMC have made a breakthrough in developing an HIV vaccine with a germline-targeting strategy, inducing immune responses in participants. The phase one trial showed promising results, suggesting the potential for this approach to be further developed into a vaccine.
$2.7 million NIH grant to fund first comprehensive syphilis test
A new $2.7 million NIH grant aims to develop a one-step confirmatory laboratory test for active syphilis infection, which can be diagnosed within 10 minutes. The proposed platform uses electrochemical sensors to detect both treponemal and non-treponemal antibodies, providing a more definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.
Making the next five years count: Europe not on track to reach 2030 Sustainable Development Goal targets on HIV, TB, viral hepatitis B and C and STIs
The EU/EEA is struggling to reach 2030 SDG targets for HIV, TB, viral hepatitis B and C, and STIs, with many countries not on track. Despite progress in some areas, significant data gaps hinder a complete assessment.
Changes in microbiome predict risk for sexually transmitted disease
Researchers found that two subtypes of bacterial vaginosis increase the risk of developing chlamydia infections. The study analyzed cervicovaginal microbiomes before, during, and after infection with chlamydia, identifying a link between specific bacteria types and increased risk.
New study shows plummeting STIs with doxyPEP use
A new study has found that rates of chlamydia and syphilis plummet among people prescribed doxycycline for STI prevention in routine clinical care. The study used pharmacy data to determine which HIV PrEP users filled prescriptions for doxyPEP, with 2,253 people receiving the medication within its first year of availability.
New study links historical redlining to delays in HIV treatment
A new study from Tulane University finds that historical race-based lending practices are still impacting health today, linking discriminatory policies to 15% longer delays in achieving viral suppression of HIV. This delay can impact individual health outcomes and public health efforts to curb the spread of HIV.
Scientists from IOCB Prague help to improve medical drugs
Researchers at IOCB Prague successfully isolated the proteasome enzyme complex of the T. vaginalis parasite, enabling them to develop new medicines that can target this parasite without harming humans. This breakthrough has critical implications for treating trichomoniasis and reducing HIV risk.
How doxycycline for STI prevention affects the gut microbiome
A study found that doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxy-PEP) did not significantly alter the overall composition of gut bacteria in individuals who took it for six months. However, the researchers noted signs of resistance building against tetracycline, a class of antibiotics to which doxycycline belongs.
Searching for a vaccine against an ancient scourge
Researchers have conducted the largest genomic survey of the syphilis bacterium to date, correlating genetic data with clinical information to identify potential targets for a vaccine. The study found differences in bacterial strains between continents, but also similarities that suggest a global vaccine could be effective.
It’s the most common STI you’ve never heard of. Will this newly developed drug provide the cure?
A five-year study led by Tulane University is investigating a new medication to treat trichomoniasis. The research compares secnidazole with metronidazole, finding that one-dose treatment could offer better options for the infection, which affects 156 million people annually.
Smallpox vaccination in childhood could offer protection against monkeypox clade II viruses, study finds
A European study found that prior smallpox vaccination in childhood could offer protection against infections caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV) clade II in men. The estimated degree of protection varied among countries, highlighting the need for further research.
Current HIV prevention medication users often stigmatize other PrEP users as ‘promiscuous’
A new study by Northwestern University found that PrEP users frequently perceive others using the medication as promiscuous, despite knowing those who use it. The authors suggest sex-positive messaging to address this stigma and encourage a broader understanding of PrEP's benefits among vulnerable populations.
George Mason University researchers lead breakthrough study to find functional cure for HIV
Researchers at George Mason University's Center for Infectious Disease Research have made a breakthrough in finding a functional cure for HIV. Using an HIV-like virus particle called HIV Rev-dependent lentiviral vector, the team was able to reduce viral reservoirs and boost the immune system to produce antiviral neutralizing antibodies.
Geographic disparities in head and neck cancer mortality and place of death
Rural residents with head and neck cancer experience higher mortality rates due to factors like alcohol use, tobacco consumption, and lower HPV vaccination rates. This disparity widens the rural-urban mortality gap.
Study suggests hepatitis E may be a sexually transmitted infection
Researchers at Ohio State University discovered the hepatitis E virus is associated with sperm in pigs, suggesting a possible link to male infertility and sexual transmission. The virus was found to circulate in blood and shed in feces, with viral particles present on the head of sperm cells that can infect human liver cells.
Only around half of individuals disclose or believe they should reveal having an STI prior to sexual intercourse, research to-date suggests
A review of research suggests that only around half of individuals feel comfortable disclosing their STI diagnosis to a partner before engaging in sexual activity. Comprehensive sex education is needed to prevent the spread of infections and support individuals with diagnosed STIs.
Experts alert doctors and the public to the arrival of hard-to-treat fungal skin infections in the United States
Experts at NYU Langone Health have warned of a growing public health threat from hard-to-treat fungal skin infections in the US. Two new reports document cases of highly contagious forms of ringworm and jock itch that can take months to clear up with treatment.
Study finds school entry requirements linked to increased HPV vaccination rates
A new study from Wake Forest University School of Medicine found that school-entry requirements are linked to an increase in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations. The study showed that these requirements, currently only implemented in a few states, can lead to higher HPV vaccination rates among adolescents.
$1.8M NIH grant will help researchers follow a virus on its path to the nucleus
The Campos Lab will investigate how human papillomavirus moves from lower epithelial cells to the upper layers and into the nucleus, where it hijacks the cell to make copies of itself. By understanding this process, researchers hope to shed light on cell division and viral transmission.
ChatGPT could help reduce vaccine hesitancy and provide helpful advice on STIs
A pilot study found that ChatGPT provided factual responses to common questions about vaccination and STIs, demonstrating its potential as a tool to reduce vaccine hesitancy and provide helpful advice on sexual health. The AI chatbot's accuracy and conciseness were comparable to professional organizations' guidelines.
Exploring the relationship between HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis and the incidence of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis – findings from Denmark
A Danish study found that PrEP use was associated with a more than twofold increase in chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis diagnoses. The researchers suggest that changes in sexual risk-taking may lead people to seek PrEP rather than increased risks.
You are never too old for an STI – more older adults being diagnosed with STIs such as gonorrhea and syphilis
The incidence of STIs among older adults is rising globally, with data from the US CDC showing a more than doubling of rates over the past decade. Experts say misconceptions about age and sex, as well as limited access to sexual health services, contribute to the problem.
Women with high-risk HPV and metabolic syndrome have almost three times risk for mortality, York University researchers find
Researchers at York University found that women with both high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) and metabolic syndrome are at a significantly higher risk of mortality. The study analyzed data from over 5,000 individuals and found that those with both conditions had a 2.6 times higher risk for mortality than those without either condition.
Socioeconomically advantaged individuals less likely to seek out HPV vaccination for their children, Hollings researchers find
Research finds socioeconomically advantaged parents are less likely to vaccinate their teens against HPV due to safety concerns. Parents from disadvantaged groups cite lack of knowledge as a reason for hesitancy.
Surge in gonorrhoea cases in Denmark: up by 46% between 2021 and 2022
A 46% increase in gonorrhoea cases in Denmark has been reported, particularly among younger women and men who have sex with women. Genomic analysis reveals distinct clones driving the increase, which may be more susceptible to treatment and have higher transmissibility.