STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. – Recent data from the New York City Health Department reveals a noticeable rise in the rates of gonorrhea and chlamydia, two common sexually transmitted infections (STIs), across the city in 2023. However, Staten Island is the exception, showing a year-over-year decline in gonorrhea cases, with chlamydia rates remaining stable.
Citywide, chlamydia cases have risen by 8% among men and 5.4% among women, while gonorrhea has seen a sharp increase of 15.9% among men and 1.1% among women. In contrast, Staten Island reported almost unchanged chlamydia rates and a slight decrease in gonorrhea cases, making it the only borough with a decline in one of the infections.
Experts caution, however, that these figures only reflect individuals who sought diagnosis and treatment. “Undiagnosed and untreated STIs can cause serious health problems. The Health Department strongly encourages regular testing and preventive measures,” said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse.
Disparities in STI Rates by Neighborhood and Poverty Levels
The data highlights the disproportionate impact of gonorrhea and chlamydia on neighborhoods with high poverty rates, defined as areas where 30% or more of residents live below the federal poverty level. In 2023, the Chelsea-Clinton area in Manhattan had the highest rates of both infections citywide.
Other neighborhoods with high STI rates include Hunts Point-Mott Haven and Highbridge-Morrisania in the Bronx for chlamydia, while Central Harlem-Morningside Heights in Manhattan and Williamsburg-Bushwick in Brooklyn reported the highest rates for gonorrhea. In contrast, Staten Island recorded the lowest infection rates among the five boroughs for both diseases.
Chlamydia Trends in NYC
Chlamydia, a treatable and curable bacterial STI, often shows no symptoms, leading many individuals to unknowingly spread the infection. Between 2022 and 2023, chlamydia rates increased by 8% in men and 5.4% in women. The rate of infection in men has been rising and is now approaching the rate seen in women.
Chlamydia disproportionately affects women, particularly teenagers and young adults. In 2023, women ages 15 to 24 accounted for 56% of all chlamydia cases, a rate five times higher than the overall rate for women. If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious reproductive health issues. Fortunately, antibiotics can cure the infection within one to two weeks, but it’s essential to complete the full course of medication even if symptoms improve.
Gonorrhea Trends in NYC
Gonorrhea, also a bacterial STI, often causes no symptoms but can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. From 2022 to 2023, gonorrhea rates increased by 15.9% in men and 1.1% in women. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that national gonorrhea rates have been higher among men since 2013, likely due to increased testing and diagnoses in gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men.
While gonorrhea can be cured with antibiotics, the rise of drug-resistant strains has made treatment more difficult. The CDC urges individuals to complete the prescribed treatment, and to consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist after treatment.
Conclusion
The rise in gonorrhea and chlamydia cases in New York City serves as a reminder of the importance of regular STI testing and safe sexual practices. Although Staten Island has seen a decline in gonorrhea rates, the rest of the city faces challenges in controlling the spread of these infections. Health officials continue to emphasize prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment to mitigate the long-term health consequences of undiagnosed STIs.