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| An illustration of the Bedlam Insane Asylum, from an 18th-Century engraving by William Hogarth() |
Global Surge in STDs
Background on the Spread of STDs
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are currently on the rise globally. This trend is not limited to countries with poor healthcare systems but is also observed in developed nations such as the United States, Europe, Japan, and South Korea. The increased use of dating apps and social media has led to shorter relationship cycles and more frequent one-night stands, contributing significantly to the spread of STDs.
Statistics and Major STDs
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are over 1 million new STD cases every day, amounting to approximately 374 million new infections annually.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): It is estimated that 1 in 3 men over the age of 15 worldwide are infected with HPV. This virus is a major cause of cancers in both men and women.
- Herpes: More than 500 million people globally are infected with herpes, which commonly affects the genital or oral areas.
Current STD Situation in South Korea
STDs are also on the rise in South Korea. According to the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service in 2023, there have been 2.69 million STD-related medical cases over the past five years, with 70.6% of these cases involving women. The highest rates of STD diagnoses are found among men in their 30s and women in their 20s.
Syphilis: In the first quarter of 2024, there were 775 reported cases of syphilis in South Korea, more than double the number from the previous year. Similar increases are seen in Japan, the United States, Canada, and Europe. In the U.S., congenital syphilis is a growing concern, with cases increasing tenfold since 2012, largely due to insufficient prenatal care.
Causes of the Increase in STDs
- Dating Apps and Social Media: The proliferation of smartphones, dating apps, and social media has made casual sexual encounters more common. The use of these apps surged during the pandemic, leading to more frequent encounters not only among people in their 20s and 30s but also among middle-aged individuals in their 40s and 50s.
- Decline in Religious Influence: In the United States, the decline in religious beliefs among the younger population has led to fewer restrictions on sexual behavior. The percentage of people identifying as non-religious has increased from 5% fifty years ago to 30% today.
- Drug Use: In Europe, the combination of drug use and party culture has significantly contributed to the spread of STDs.
- Increase in Homosexual Relationships: The rise in homosexual relationships has also led to a higher risk of STD transmission. Homosexual encounters are scientifically shown to be more susceptible to certain STDs compared to heterosexual encounters.
Prevention and Management of STDs
Since many STDs have no symptoms or long incubation periods, early detection is challenging. If an STD infection is suspected, it is crucial to get tested immediately and inform any partners. Preventive measures include practicing safe sex and undergoing regular health screenings.
Raising awareness about the seriousness of STDs, encouraging responsible personal behavior, and strengthening public health measures are vital steps in addressing the global rise in STDs.
