Top 4 Most Common Incurable STIs

STDs vs STIs: Is there a difference?

“STD” is the standard abbreviation for sexually transmitted diseases, while “STI” is for sexually transmitted infections. The main difference between the two is that an STI represents the first step of an STD, while an STD represents the result after the STI. STI is often the first step of disease and occurs when bacteria or viruses enter the body and start multiplying.

More than 1 million STIs are acquired every day by people ages 15 to 49. 

1. Hepatitis B an estimated 240 million people are living with Hepatitis B globally
2. HIV 37.9 Million people were living with HIV globally in 2018
3. human papillomavirus (HPV) Estimated 300 million women live with HPV which is known to cause cervical cancer.
4. Herpes simplex virus (HSV or herpes) More than 500 million people are estimated to have genital infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV)

The most effective ways to prevent STIs

Abstinence

Avoiding vaginal, anal, oral or all forms of sexual activities is the most reliable way to avoid STIs.

Vaccination

Immunization is safe and effective for preventing infection with hepatitis B and HPV.

Fewer Sex Partners

Reduces your exposure and lowers your risk of contracting an STI.

Mutual Monogamy

Engaging in sexual activity only with someone you’re in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with is one of the most reliable ways to avoid getting STIs.

Condoms

Using condoms correctly and without fail, while not completely removing the risk, is very effective at reducing your risk of getting or spreading an STI.

Partner Testing/Treatment

Ensure your sexual partner is tested and treated for any STIs before engaging in sexual activity.  

Treatments for Incurable STIs

Hepatitis B: Antiviral medication to fight the virus and prevent liver damage

Examples: entecavir (Baraclude®), tenofovir (Viread®), lamivudine (Epivir®)

HIV: Antiretroviral medications to prevent the virus from multiplying and to reduce viral load

Examples: delavirdine (Rescriptor®), doravirine (Pifeltro®), efavirenz (Sustiva®)

HPV: Medications to eliminate warts and prescription cream to improve immunity to the virus

Examples: salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid, imiquimod cream

Herpes: Antivirals to modulate the course of the disease

Examples: acyclovir (Zovirax®), famciclovir (Famvir®), valacyclovir (Valtrex®)