Sexually Transmitted Diseases Hit All-Time High In California

CALIFORNIA -- The number of people who were diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease in California has hit an all-time high, according to a report released this week by the California Department of Public Health. Health officials said more than 300,000 cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and early syphilis were reported: a 45 percent increase compared to five years ago.

Health officials said what's particularly concerning is there were 30 stillbirths due to congenital syphilis in California in 2017, making it the highest number reported since 1995.

Chlamydia and gonorrhea rates are highest among people under age 30. Rates of chlamydia are highest among young women, and males account for the majority of syphilis and gonorrhea cases, officials said.

"STDs are preventable by consistently using condoms, and many STDs can be cured with antibiotics," said CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith. "Regular testing and treatment are very important for people who are sexually active, even for people who have no symptoms. Most people infected with an STD do not know it."

STDs can cause a number of serious health problems. If left untreated, chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. Syphilis can cause permanent loss of vision, hearing and other neurologic problems, officials said.

State health officials said they are collaborating with local health departments and organizations throughout the state to raise awareness.

For more information, visit the CDPH Sexually Transmitted Diseases Control Branch.

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