GENEVA, Switzerland—The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new global database, the STI Prevalence Atlas, to track the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This open-access database aims to improve understanding of STI prevalence in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) by consolidating standardized and quality-assured data.

Database Overview and Scope

The STI Prevalence Atlas, launched on July 9, 2026, focuses on five common STIs: chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), syphilis, and trichomoniasis. The database is designed as a dynamic resource, with plans to expand its scope to cover additional STIs as new studies are published and reviewed.

As of June 2026, the database contains data from 766 studies and 2,453 prevalence data points. The data extraction process is ongoing, with the database last updated on January 23, 2026. This information is drawn from a broad range of settings and populations, including household-based surveys, studies among pregnant women, adolescents, and key populations such as sex workers and STI clinic attendees. It also includes baseline data from intervention studies and case-control studies.

The data included in the Atlas are from studies with clearly defined population groups, sufficient methodological detail, and most samples collected in 2010 or later. To ensure quality, studies must also have a sufficient sample size. The database brings together both published and unpublished evidence from diverse sources, addressing challenges in accessing reliable country- and population-specific STI data.

Purpose and Impact

The WHO intends for the STI Prevalence Atlas to inform policymakers, researchers, community organizations, NGOs, and governments on how to respond to STI prevention. The breadth of evidence within the database allows for an understanding of STI epidemiology across both general and higher-risk populations. Dr. Tereza Kasaeva, Director of WHO’s Department for HIV, TB, Hepatitis and STIs, stated that the database represents a significant step in understanding the burden of STIs across diverse populations and settings. Dr. Kasaeva also noted that by making these data openly accessible, countries and partners are equipped with the evidence needed to design targeted interventions, strengthen surveillance systems, and accelerate progress towards reducing the global impact of STIs.

The database is the first global platform to provide consolidated, standardized, and quality-assured STI prevalence data from low- and middle-income countries from 2010 onwards. The WHO produces global and regional estimates of common STIs periodically. In 2020, data collected by the organization indicated an estimated 374 million new infections globally.

Key Facts

  • The STI Prevalence Atlas was launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) on July 9, 2026.
  • It tracks the prevalence of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes simplex virus type 2, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
  • As of June 2026, the database includes data from 766 studies and 2,453 prevalence data points.
  • The data covers a broad range of populations, including sex workers, pregnant women, and STI clinic attendees.
  • The database is intended to inform policymakers, researchers, community organizations, NGOs, and governments.
  • The data included in the database are from studies with samples collected in 2010 or later.