The second week of April (9th-15th April 2023) is observed as "STI Awareness Week" to spread awareness about sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Nearly 1 million STIs are acquired every day worldwide. 

According to CDC, 1 in 5 people in the United States suffers from STI. With a prevalence of 5-6% in the adult population of India and much higher (20-30% estimate) among the high-risk groups (NACO). 

Newer STI cases cost approximately $16 billion to the American healthcare system. This week is supposed to reduce the stigma related to STIs and encourage newer preventive strategies at or before the critical stage of illnesses. 

Increasing contact with patients through telephone and online health consultations to increase access to medical treatment is the need of the hour.