Controlling sexually transmitted and reproductive tract infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and reproductive tract infections (RTIs) are responsible for considerable ill-health throughout the world, both directly and by increasing the risk of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Each year, there are an estimated 340 million new cases of curable STIs, as well as many millions of incurable viral STIs, including some 5 million new HIV infections. In the 1980s, the prevention and treatment of STIs were identified as one approach to controlling the HIV epidemic. As antiretroviral treatment of people with HIV/AIDS acquires a higher profile, it is important not to lose sight of the continuing need for prevention, of which STI and RTI control is a key component. In addition, sexual and reproductive health services offer an opportunity to provide counselling and advice on HIV prevention.

The World Health Assembly (WHA) adopted a Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). The Global Strategy provides a framework for countries to improve and accelerate their STI programmes and ensure that they are well integrated and linked with other sexual and reproductive health services, such as those for family planning, maternal health, and HIV prevention and care. The WHA reinforced the importance of comprehensive interventions, particularly for young people, which provide full information, life-skills, education and care for the prevention and management of STIs.