STI Rates Surge Among Older Adults, CDC Reports

Increased sexual activity and lack of education cited as key factors in the rise of sexually transmitted infections in those over 55.

CDC data reveals a significant increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among adults over 55 in the U.S., with syphilis cases rising sevenfold from 2012 to 2022.
The rise in STIs is attributed to factors such as increased sexual activity due to longer life expectancies, the use of erectile dysfunction drugs like Viagra, and a lack of comprehensive sex education for older adults.
Experts argue for the normalization of conversations around sex and intimacy in older age, emphasizing that older adults have the right to good sexual health.
The increase in STIs among older adults is a global issue, with similar trends observed in the UK, China, Korea, Kenya, and Botswana.
Health professionals are urged to incorporate sexual health into routine care for older patients and to improve access to condoms, testing, and treatment.