The Top 10 STDs You Need to Know
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a growing public health concern worldwide. According to the American Social Health Association, one out of four teenagers in the United States develops an STD, and half of all sexually active young adults are likely to contract one by the age of 25.
In this article, we’ll cover the top 10 STDs, how they spread, who is at risk, curable STDs, and prevention tips.
The Top 10 STDs You Should Be Aware Of
Here are the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs/STDs) affecting millions globally:
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Hepatitis B
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Chlamydia
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Bacterial Vaginosis
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Pubic Lice
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Genital Herpes (Herpes Simplex Virus)
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Human Papillomavirus (HPV – Genital Warts)
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Syphilis (Chancroid)
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Gonorrhea (Clap)
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Trichomoniasis (Trich)
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HIV/AIDS
👉 Learn more about STDs from the World Health Organisation (WHO)
How Do STDs Spread?
STDs are usually transmitted through:
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Sexual contact: vaginal, oral, or anal sex
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Blood and blood products (including HIV, Hepatitis B, and syphilis)
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Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy or childbirth
That’s why practising safe sex is crucial for prevention.
Who Can Get STDs?
Anyone can contract an STD, but the risk is higher among:
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Sexually active individuals
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Those who do not use condoms
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People with multiple sexual partners
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Individuals with a history of STDs
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Men who have sex with men (MSM), as studies show a higher infection rate in this group
The Four Curable STDs
The good news is that some STDs are curable with timely treatment. These include:
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Chlamydia
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Gonorrhea
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Trichomoniasis
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Syphilis
However, global estimates reveal over one million new curable STD cases occur daily. While these infections can be treated, diseases like HIV and HPV remain incurable and require lifelong management.
👉 Read about STD prevention and treatment from the CDC
How to Stay Safe from STDs
Prevention is the best protection. Here are proven ways to reduce your risk:
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Use condoms correctly during every sexual encounter
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Get regular STD testing between partners or after unprotected sex
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Limit casual sex and stick to one partner when possible
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Discuss risks openly with your partner before intimacy
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Seek treatment promptly if you suspect an infection
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Ensure both you and your partner complete treatment to prevent reinfection
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Pregnant women should get tested early to avoid passing infections to their babies
👉 Check out our Guide to Safe Sex Practices
Conclusion
STDs remain a serious global health challenge, especially among young adults. By understanding the top 10 STDs, their risks, and prevention strategies, you can make informed choices about your sexual health.
Remember: most STDs show no symptoms, so regular testing is key. Using protection, limiting risk factors, and having honest conversations with your partner can make all the difference.
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