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Review
. 2018 Feb;30(1):137-143.
doi: 10.1097/MOP.0000000000000578.

The growing epidemic of sexually transmitted infections in adolescents: a neglected population

Chelsea L Shannon  1 , Jeffrey D Klausner
Affiliations
Review

The growing epidemic of sexually transmitted infections in adolescents: a neglected population

Chelsea L Shannon et al. Curr Opin Pediatr. 2018 Feb.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Sexually transmitted infection (STI) incidence is on the rise in the United States. The increase is especially pronounced in adolescents (15-24 years of age). Despite making up only a quarter of the population, adolescents account for approximately half of new STIs in the United States every year. This review summarizes recent developments in the field of STIs, excluding HIV, in adolescents.

Recent findings: In this review, we examine the epidemiology, screening, management, and prevention of STIs in adolescents. STI rates in adolescents have been rising since 2014, with young women and MSM at particularly high risk. Barriers to STI screening for adolescents include confidentiality concerns and lack of access to health services. Prevention through STI vaccines represents a promising way to combat the epidemic.

Summary: STIs are a growing concern for adolescents. Routine screening and management are of critical importance. Furthermore, prevention efforts such as human papillomavirus vaccination should be prioritized. Much of the current literature on STIs does not address the unique nature of STIs in adolescents, and additional research into effective prevention and treatment strategies of STIs in adolescents is urgently needed.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of Interest: None

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) Infection Rates Among Adolescents from 2007–2016
Description: The figure shows the rate of CT and NG infections in adolescents from 2007–2016 Data from: CDC Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance, 20162
Figure 2
Figure 2. Chlamydia trachomatis Infection — Rates of Reported Cases Among Women Aged 15–24 Years by State, United States and Outlying Areas, 2016
Description: The figure shows 2016 CT infection rates in adolescent females, broken down by state. Image from: CDC Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance, 20162
Figure 3
Figure 3. Primary and Secondary Syphilis — Distribution of Cases by Sex and Sexual Behavior, United States, 2016
Description: The figure highlights the distribution of primary and secondary syphilis infections by sex and sexual behavior. Data from: CDC Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance, 20162
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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