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A survey of 1,639 U.S. adults by University of Pennsylvania found that Americans generally understand the basics of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Most respondents correctly identified that gonorrhea (94%), HIV (92%), syphilis (91%), and chlamydia (89%) can be transmitted sexually. A high number of respondents also correctly recognized the specific routes of transmission for STIs as well: vaginal sex (97% recognized this route); anal sex (94%); genital-to-genital contact (91%); and oral sex (89%). Additionally, 93% reported knowing that STIs can spread even without symptoms, and 80% know STIs can be passed from a pregnant person to their baby.
Need for knowledge: Regardless, the researchers say there are still significant information gaps, and public knowledge around STIs hasn’t improved in the past 2 years. For example, in asking about syphilis, 61% of respondents either incorrectly believed a vaccine exists or were unsure whether a vaccine exists. And 20% incorrectly believe sitting on a toilet after someone with an STI sat on it could be a route of transmission. Forty-seven percent of respondents reported that they or someone they know had been diagnosed with an STI.