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Sexually transmitted infections and dating app use.
Carlos Bustamante Orellana1, Jordan Lyerla2, Aaron Martin1
1Simon A. Levin Mathematical, Computational and Modeling Sciences Center, Arizona State University, Engineering Center, A Wing, AZ 85287-3901, USA.
Dating apps are linked to a rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the US. Research suggests annual increases of 9%-15% in STI incidence and prevalence due to dating app use.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Digital Health
Background:
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) incidence is increasing significantly in the United States.
- Factors contributing to the rise include unprotected sex and multiple partners.
- Dating app usage is hypothesized to influence these behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the impact of dating app usage on STI incidence and prevalence.
- To project future trends in STI rates related to dating apps.
- To evaluate the potential of in-app interventions.
Main Methods:
- Development and application of a mathematical model.
- Analysis of STI incidence and prevalence data.
- Estimation of annual increases attributed to dating app use.
Main Results:
- Dating apps are associated with an estimated annual increase of 9%-15% in STI incidence and prevalence for both males and females between 2015 and 2019.
- The model predicts continued future increases in STI rates.
- The study assessed the potential effectiveness of in-app prevention campaigns.
Conclusions:
- Dating app usage is a significant factor contributing to the growing STI epidemic.
- Interventions within dating apps may help mitigate rising STI rates.
- Further research and targeted public health strategies are warranted.
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