Epidemiology & Country Information

Epidemiology

Trichomoniasis is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections found in the United States. The CDC estimates that 5 million new cases occur annually. It is found in 3-5% of females in North America. .

Trichomonas vaginalis has a high prevalence among African-Americans in urban centers. T. vaginalis is a significant corellate with other sexually-transmitted infections. According to the CDC, it is an important cofactor in HIV transmission and may increase HIV shedding (risk of contraction from an infected individual).

Infection is often overlooked in studies due its mild clinical presentation, lack of adverse effects on fertility, and lack of evidence of poor birth outcomes. Underdiagnosis is estimated at 50% or more. However, T. vaginalis may persist in a host for 2+ years if untreated.


Country Information

Trichomoniasis occurs worldwide. There is a higher prevalence among people with multiple sexual partners and/or other venereal diseases. An estimated 120 million cases of trichomoniasis occur worldwide each year.