Long-term data confirm rise in STDs

Consistent with previously published short-term data, new data from 12 years of insurance claims finds that sexually transmitted diseases in the U.S. are on the rise. Here’s more from the report: 

• Overall trends: Nationally, claim lines for STD diagnoses went up 76% between 2007-2018, and the spike was especially pronounced in rural areas. They experienced a 98% rise in claim lines, while urban areas saw a 77% increase. 
• By disease: Claim lines associated with diagnoses of Mycoplasma genitalium, an STD caused by a bacterium of the same name, saw an increase of nearly 200%. Claims associated with chlamydia and gonorrhea also increased by more than 100%.
• Demographics: In those over 60, hepatitis B was the disease with the highest increase. Overall, males experienced a 326% increase in gonorrhea diagnoses — females experienced a 47% increase.