HONOLULU — An increase in sexually transmitted diseases in Hawaii to the highest numbers reported in decades can be linked to the prevalence of online dating, officials said.
Cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis have increased significantly in the state. All three infections were at or near their highest rates in about 30 years, according to the state Department of Health’s Harm Reduction Services Branch.
Hawaii health officials recorded 7,732 cases of chlamydia in 2018, up from 5,972 cases in 2008. Gonorrhea more than doubled over the past 10 years from 611 to 1,496 cases. Syphilis infections increased to 180 cases from 38 a decade ago, officials said.
More connections with many more people are made rapidly through online dating services, officials said.
“As people rely on digital means of making connections, it can lead to circumstances where they might be more exposed to infection without them knowing it,” said Gerald Hasty, program coordinator for the state harm reduction branch. “More partners, more chances to get infections.”
There has also been decreasing reliance on condoms or prophylactics for protection against acquiring or spreading STDs, officials said.
The Hawaii figures correspond with the national rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis infections, which have risen for the fifth year in a row, officials said.
The increase is “not desirable, but it’s also not unexpected.”
The three infections do not cause distinct or troubling early symptoms so those who are infected have “absolutely no idea of it,” Hasty said.
“That sets the stage for the infections to be spread,” Hasty said. “Lack of regular screenings or routine screenings contributes to increasing rates.”