STIs have become a growing public health concern around the world, as recent data suggests. In India alone, there are approximately 35 million new cases of STDs reported each year. The prevalence of STIs is high, with an estimated 1.6 million cases of chlamydia, 840,000 cases of gonorrhea, and 6.2 million cases of herpes reported in 2019 alone. Unfortunately, the situation seems to be worsening, as there has been a surge of 56.5% in STI cases in India between 2019 and 2021. These figures highlight the urgent need for increased awareness, prevention, and treatment of STIs in India and around the world.
However, despite their prevalence, a large number of individuals still feel ashamed or embarrassed to undergo testing and treatment. Unfortunately, this stigma creates a barrier to understanding these conditions and hinders efforts to educate the public and raise awareness. As a result, many individuals do not receive the necessary support and resources to manage their condition and may suffer in silence.
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Manzuri, a sex-tech startup that aims to democratize pleasure and destigmatize sex in India, has announced that they will be dedicating 2% of their monthly revenue to a non-profit organization dedicated to sex education and removing the shame and stigma surrounding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in India. “By partnering with an NGO, we hope to break down the barriers that prevent people from seeking testing and treatment for STIs and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual health,” said Mr. Ritesh D. Ritelin, co-founder. In addition to this initiative, as part of their commitment to fighting STI stigma, Manzuri will also be providing free STI test kits during STI Awareness Month.
STI Awareness Month is an essential reminder of the value of sexual health and the need to remove the shame and stigma associated with STIs. By working together, organizations like Manzuri Wellness and Team Tarini are helping to create a more informed and empowered community.
