GENEVA, Switzerland—The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new global database on the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Designated as the STI Prevalence Atlas, the database tracks infection rates for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes simplex virus type 2, syphilis and trichomoniasis.
As of June of this year, the database contains data from 766 studies and 2,453 prevalence data points. That data provides a very broad range of settings and populations, including household-based surveys and studies researching such infections among pregnant women, adolescents and other key populations (e.g., sex workers and STI clinic patients).
“This database represents a first major step forward in our ability to understand the burden of sexually transmitted infections across diverse populations and settings,” said Dr. Tereza Kasaeva, the director of WHO's HIV, TB, Hepatitis and STI department, in a press statement.
"By making these data openly accessible, we are equipping countries and partners with the evidence needed to design targeted interventions, strengthen surveillance systems and accelerate progress towards reducing the global impact of STIs," Dr. Kasaeva said.
According to WHO, the database is intended to inform policymakers, researchers, community organizations, NGOs and governments on how to respond to STI prevention.
"The breadth of evidence included in the database allows for an understanding of STI epidemiology across both general and higher-risk populations," notes the organization in the same press statement. "As new studies are published and reviewed, the database will be updated to reflect the latest evidence and expanded in scope to cover additional STIs, ensuring that it remains relevant to emerging public health needs."
