The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the world’s first global database on the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), providing countries with a centralised platform to access standardised, quality-assured data aimed at strengthening disease surveillance and improving public health responses.
The new Global STI Surveillance Dashboard is designed to enhance the collection, analysis and sharing of data on sexually transmitted infections, enabling governments, researchers and health authorities to monitor trends, identify emerging challenges and develop evidence-based interventions. The initiative supports WHO’s broader strategy to reduce the global burden of STIs and improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes.
According to the WHO, the database consolidates information submitted by member states using harmonised reporting standards, making it easier to compare data across countries and regions. The platform includes indicators on the prevalence of key sexually transmitted infections, surveillance systems, diagnostic capacity and national response measures.
WHO said the dashboard is expected to help countries identify gaps in surveillance, strengthen laboratory and reporting systems, and guide the allocation of resources for prevention, testing and treatment programmes.
“Reliable, timely and comparable data are essential for effective STI control,” the organisation said, noting that the new platform will improve the ability of national health authorities to detect changes in disease patterns and respond more rapidly to outbreaks.
Sexually transmitted infections remain a major global public health concern. WHO estimates that more than one million curable STIs including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and trichomoniasis are acquired every day worldwide. If left untreated, these infections can lead to serious health complications, including infertility, pregnancy complications, certain cancers and an increased risk of HIV transmission.
The organisation said the launch of the database represents a significant milestone in global efforts to strengthen STI surveillance and support countries in achieving the targets outlined in the Global Health Sector Strategies on HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections 2022–2030.
WHO urged member states to regularly update their surveillance data and make full use of the platform to improve public health planning, policy formulation and access to STI prevention and treatment services.
