Global Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) Diagnostics Market - 2025 - 2033

The global Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) diagnostics market reached US$ 10.6 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 19.4 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period 2025-2033.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) diagnostics refers to the medical processes and technologies used to detect, identify and confirm the presence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in individuals. These diseases are primarily transmitted through sexual contact and can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. STD diagnostics encompasses a wide range of laboratory tests, clinical evaluations and screening methods to detect infections in their early stages, even before symptoms appear, allowing for timely treatment and reducing the risk of transmission to others.

The demand for sexually transmitted diseases (STD) diagnostics is driven by a variety of factors, ranging from increasing awareness of sexual health to advancements in diagnostic technology. For instance, according to WHO estimates, 374 million new cases of one of the four STIs trichomoniasis (156 million), gonorrhea (82 million), syphilis (7.1 million), and chlamydia (129 million) occurred in 2020. An estimated 300 million women are infected with HPV, the main cause of anal and cervical cancer in males who have sex with men. These rising STDs increase the demand for STD diagnostics.

Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints

Rising advancements in STD self-diagnostics

The rising advancements in STD self-diagnostics are significantly driving the growth of the sexually transmitted diseases (STD) diagnostics market and are expected to drive the market over the forecast period. Self-testing kits for STDs allow individuals to test at home without the need for a healthcare professional, making the process more convenient and private. This trend has been particularly important in reducing the stigma associated with STD testing.

For instance, in August 2024, Nova Scotia is going to offer free at-home tests for sexually transmitted infections is an important step toward reducing some barriers to vital sexual health care, says the head of the provincial AIDS coalition.

Additionally, in June 2023, LifeCell International launched test kits that allow patients to collect cell swabs and tissue samples in the privacy of their homes that can then be used for detecting Human Papillomavirus (HPV) which causes cervical cancer in women and sexually transmitted infections like syphilis or gonorrhea.

Modern self-diagnostic tests are designed to provide rapid results, which is a significant driver in the market. Users can get test results in 20 minutes to 1 hour, making it more attractive for those seeking immediate answers. For instance, OraQuick offers a rapid HIV test that delivers results in 20 minutes with no need for laboratory equipment. The speed and ease of these tests contribute to their growing popularity, as individuals are more likely to use tests that provide quick feedback.

Limited awareness and education

Limited awareness and education are significant barriers to the growth of the sexually transmitted diseases (STD) diagnostics market. Despite advances in diagnostic technologies and an increasing range of testing options, insufficient understanding of the importance of STD testing and a lack of education about sexual health have hindered the widespread adoption of diagnostic services.

Many individuals are unaware of the risks associated with STDs, especially asymptomatic infections that can go unnoticed. This lack of awareness leads to low testing rates, especially in populations who might not perceive themselves as being at risk. For instance, according to the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 people in the U.S. are living with an STD, but many remain undiagnosed because they do not seek testing. This is particularly common with infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea, which often present with no symptoms.

Many individuals avoid STD testing due to fear of being stigmatized, even if they are aware of the need for testing. This is particularly true in conservative societies where discussions about sexual health are taboo. For instance, in India, cultural norms discourage open conversations about sexual health, which results in lower testing rates. According to a study by the Indian Journal of Public Health, over 50% of young people surveyed were unwilling to seek medical advice or testing for STDs due to fear of social stigma.

Segment Analysis

The global sexually transmitted diseases (STD) diagnostics market is segmented based on product type, disease type, diagnostic test type, end-user and region.

Disease Type:

The chlamydia segment is expected to dominate the sexually transmitted diseases (STD) diagnostics market share

Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs globally, particularly affecting young adults and adolescents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over 1.8 million new cases of chlamydia are reported annually in the United States alone, making it the most frequently reported STD in the country.

Chlamydia is often asymptomatic, particularly in women, leading to high rates of undiagnosed cases. This makes regular testing crucial, especially among sexually active individuals who may not be aware they are infected. As a result, the demand for routine screening and diagnostic tests increases. Thus, many market players are advancing STD diagnostics for chlamydia testing.

For instance, in May 2024, Sherlock Bio started testing its over-the-counter fast test for identifying STIs including chlamydia, with its plans to sell it by the middle of 2025. In order to compare the accuracy of their CRISPR-based test to widely used lab tests for chlamydia, the business intends to enlist 2,500 sexually active volunteers at 20 research locations around the United States.

Because Chlamydia is highly treatable with antibiotics, early detection and treatment are key to preventing long-term health complications. Many health authorities, including the CDC and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), recommend routine screening for Chlamydia for sexually active women under the age of 25 and for individuals in high-risk groups.

Geographical Analysis

North America is expected to hold a significant position in the sexually transmitted diseases (STD) diagnostics market share

North America, especially the United States, has one of the highest rates of sexually transmitted diseases globally. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were diagnosed in the United States between 2020 to 2021. The high incidence of STDs in this region drives the demand for diagnostic tests.

The U.S. has also seen significant challenges with HIV, a key part of the STD landscape. According to HIV.gov, more than 1.2 million Americans are currently living with HIV and many more are at risk of HIV infection. According to the CDC, around 38,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with HIV annually, contributing to the demand for regular HIV testing and diagnostics.

North America benefits from strong public health policies that promote regular STD testing, early diagnosis, and treatment. The CDC and other organizations run numerous programs aimed at increasing awareness and access to STD diagnostics. For instance, the "Get Yourself Tested" (GYT) campaign, which encourages young people to get tested for STDs, has significantly increased awareness and testing uptake, particularly among sexually active youth. This initiative has led to a greater demand for diagnostic services and kits.

North America leads in the adoption of advanced diagnostic technologies for STDs. Technologies such as at-home diagnostic kits, rapid diagnostic tests and point-of-care tests are widely used across the region due to their accuracy, ease of use, and quick results.

For instance, in August 2023, the iHealth Labs, Inc. (iHealth) Home Collection Kit for HIV and syphilis testing was released. In the privacy of their own home, anybody over the age of 18 can get a blood sample for testing for syphilis and HIV (I, II, and P24 antigen) using the FDA-approved solution. They can mail the sample to the lab with a pre-paid overnight label and receive accurate and private results in as little as two days. As the STD issue in the United States grew, iHealth responded by launching the first home collection solution in the STD OTC test category.

Asia-Pacific is growing at the fastest pace in the sexually transmitted diseases (STD) diagnostics market

The Asia-Pacific region, home to more than 4.5 billion people, has seen an alarming rise in the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Asia accounts for a significant percentage of global STD cases. In China, India, and Thailand, the incidence of STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis is increasing, especially among young people and high-risk groups.

For instance, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH), globally, there are 376 million new cases of four curable STDs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis) each year, with a significant portion occurring in Asia. In India, syphilis and chlamydia are among the most common STDs, leading to an increased need for diagnostic tests.

Over the past decade, there has been a growing awareness of sexual health issues, including the importance of STD testing, in many parts of Asia. This is primarily driven by global health campaigns, educational initiatives, and increased media coverage of STDs and HIV/AIDS prevention. For instance, In India, public health campaigns, such as those run by the India HIV/AIDS Alliance and Population Foundation of India, have been instrumental in spreading awareness about STDs and HIV, encouraging people to get tested, leading to more frequent testing and demand for diagnostic services.

Additionally, several governments in the Asia-Pacific region have recognized the importance of combating STDs and are investing in prevention, education, and diagnostic services. The Indian government, for instance, has launched the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), which offers free testing and treatment for HIV, syphilis, and other STDs in many public health centers.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the sexually transmitted diseases (STD) diagnostics market include Abbott Laboratories, Becton, Dickinson, and Company, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Hologic, Inc., QIAGEN N.V., Diasorin S.p.A., Seegene Inc., Bosch Healthcare Solutions GmbH and among others.

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The global sexually transmitted diseases (STD) diagnostics market report delivers a detailed analysis with 70 key tables, more than 70 visually impactful figures, and 188 pages of expert insights, providing a complete view of the market landscape.

Target Audience 2024

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