STI rates of Canadians Aged 40-60 yrs of age

Here’s a detailed report for STI rates of Canadians aged 40–60, including provincial age-specific tables, gender breakdown, and insights into trichomoniasis, HPV-related cancer risk, and co-infection dynamics in this group:

✅ Key Takeaways for Ages 40–60

1. STI rates vary regionally, highest in Western/Northern provinces.

2. Males have far higher rates, especially for syphilis.

3. Trichomoniasis is likely underdiagnosed, but relevant in this age group due to reproductive and inflammatory impacts.

4. HPV persistence in midlife can lead to cancer, underscoring the importance of screening.

5. Co-infections amplify HIV risk, particularly with ulcerative STIs and herpes.

🗺️ Provincial Age-Specific Rates (40–59)

Estimated STI rates per 100,000 in the 40–59 age bracket (2021 PHAC data):

Province/Territory	Chlamydia	Gonorrhea	Syphilis
Ontario	120	40	20
Quebec	110	40	15
Alberta	140	50	30
British Columbia	130	50	25
Manitoba	170	70	55
Saskatchewan	180	80	70
Territories	200+	100+	100+

Rates rise moving westward and into Northern regions (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).

🚻 Gender Breakdown (Ages 40–59)

Infection	Male Rate	Female Rate	M:F Ratio
Chlamydia	133	78	~1.7:1
Gonorrhea	61	24	~2.5:1
Syphilis	41	5.5	~7.5:1

Men in this age range face notably higher rates—especially for syphilis .

🦠 Trichomoniasis (T. vaginalis)

• Global prevalence: ~2.7% of females and 1.4% of males (en.wikipedia.org).

• Often asymptomatic in men; women may experience vaginitis and discharge.

• Risks include:

  • Increased HIV acquisition risk

  • Possible low birth weight and premature births in pregnant women

  • Chronic prostatic inflammation in men (linked to prostate cancer) (en.wikipedia.org).

Trichomoniasis isn’t nationally reportable in Canada, but these global rates suggest it likely affects thousands in the 40–60 age group.

🎗 HPV & Cancer Risks (Ages 40–60)

• Persistent high-risk HPV infections are precursors to cancers. In Canada:

  • HPV is responsible for ~1,550 new cervical cancers (2023) and ~400 deaths (canada.ca).

  • High-risk HPV types (16/18) cause ~90% of cervical and 100% of anal cancers; also linked to penile, vaginal, oropharyngeal cancers .

• Prevalence among midlife women:

  • 40–49: 4–8% harbor high-risk HPV (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).

  • 50–59: prevalence declines but remains clinically relevant.

• Co-factors increasing HPV persistence and cancer risk:

  • Smoking, HIV co-infection, history of other STIs (en.wikipedia.org, phac-aspc.gc.ca).

• Screening:

  • HPV vaccination started in youth; most 40–60s are unvaccinated—relying fully on screening (Pap tests, HPV DNA).

  • HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers disproportionately affect men and emerge later in life (canada.ca, canada.ca).

🤝 Co-Infection Dynamics & HIV Risk

• STIs (ulcerative: syphilis, HSV) and non-ulcerative (chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis) all increase HIV transmission risk (canada.ca).

• HSV co-infection can double HIV acquisition risk (ctnplus.ca).

• Historical data reveals notable co-infections among street youth — with HSV (26%), HBV, HCV, and HIV overlaps (phac-aspc.gc.ca).

For adults 40–60, especially with unrecognized herpes or trichomoniasis, combined risk is significant—particularly for those with multiple partners or HIV exposure.

🩺 Action Steps for Healthcare Providers & Patients in 40–60 Age Bracket

• Include trichomoniasis and HSV in diagnostic panels for symptomatic or at-risk individuals.

• Ensure regular Pap and HPV screening for unvaccinated women; monitor men for anal/oropharyngeal risk signs, especially if HIV-positive.

• Promote condom use and retesting, especially with new partners or changing relationship status.

• Educate about herpes/trichomoniasis symptoms and encourage routine testing—even without symptoms.