Advancing STI priorities in the SDG era: priorities for action

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Global Health Equity
• Infectious Disease Control

Background:

• The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a framework for global development, emphasizing equity and well-being.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) disproportionately affect women and vulnerable populations, highlighting a critical intersection with SDG objectives.
• Current approaches to STI control require reimagining to align with the comprehensive scope of the SDGs.

Discussion:

• Identifying specific points of convergence between the SDGs and STI control strategies is crucial.
• Leveraging the SDGs can amplify efforts to reduce the burden of STIs, particularly among marginalized communities.
• Synergistic approaches combining STI, HIV, and broader SDG initiatives can optimize resource allocation and impact.

Key Insights:

• STIs disproportionately impact women and vulnerable populations, making STI control a key component of achieving health equity under the SDGs.
• The SDGs offer a unique opportunity to reconfigure and strengthen global strategies for sexually transmitted infection management.
• Prioritizing specific population groups and settings is essential for effective STI intervention within the SDG framework.

Outlook:

• There are significant opportunities for public health professionals and researchers to advance the field of STI control in alignment with the SDGs.
• Integrating STI prevention and treatment into broader development agendas can accelerate progress towards global health security.
• Future efforts should focus on creating targeted, equitable, and sustainable programs for STI control worldwide.