Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health concern in the United States. STIs are frequently asymptomatic and can lead to significant morbidity if left untreated. In recent years, the prevalence of STIs has risen significantly. Screening guidelines, recommendations, and programs have been developed with the goal of identifying and treating individuals with STIs in order to limit transmission, reinfections, and complications. Though the prevalence of STIs is increasing, screening rates remain lower than desired.
Family physicians are in an ideal position to help address the low-screening rates for STIs and aid in early detection of these diseases, thereby preventing transmission and future complications for patients who are affected.
The AAFP has a variety of resources to help family physicians with prevention, screening, treatment, and counseling of their patients regarding sexually transmitted infections. These include clinical preventive service recommendations, policies, continuing medical education (CME) courses, journal articles, and a new practice manual.
Syphilis has seen a troubling resurgence in recent years. Congenital syphilis has similarly increased, posing severe health risks to pregnant people and newborns. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of syphilis can prevent severe health complications and the transmission of the disease, including to newborns. Family physicians should be vigilant in screening and treating syphilis, especially among pregnant individuals.
While early treatment can cure the infection and prevent severe complications such as neurological and cardiovascular damage, the CDC recommends pregnant individuals get tested up to 3 times:
Penicillin remains the treatment of choice for all stages of syphilis. The FDA has also approved the temporary importation of Extencilline® to mitigate the Bicillin L-A® shortage, crucial for syphilis treatment.
The AAFP is actively monitoring the current situation and working closely with the CDC, HHS and other public health organizations to provide up-to-date information and resources to family physicians. For additional information and resources, see the CDC’s dedicated pages on syphilis and congenital syphilis as well as AAFP’s resources on screening and management of sexually transmitted infections.