Global, regional, and national burden of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among women of childbearing age from 1990 to 2021

Abstract

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose a significant public health challenge, particularly among women of childbearing age, with substantial impacts on individual health and societal wellbeing. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the global, regional, and national age-standardized rates of incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for STIs among women aged 15–49 over the past three decades. The findings reveal alarming trends, with HIV/AIDS topping the list in terms of mortality and DALYs and trichomoniasis and genital herpes showing high incidence and prevalence rates. These data highlight the urgent need for targeted screening and preventive interventions to address the disparities in STI burden across regions and countries. By understanding the trends and patterns of STIs, policymakers and healthcare providers can develop effective strategies to reduce the transmission and impact of these infections among women of reproductive age, thereby improving global public health outcomes.