Known cases of chlamydia in the US have topped a million for the first time, with the highest rates among adolescent girls, USA Today reports. Under-reporting of the sexually transmitted disease means the real number could be nearly three times higher. Syphilis and gonorrhea are also on the rise, partly due to antibiotic-resistant superbugs.
Chlamydia can be easily cured, but it often produces no symptoms, meaning infected people don't know they have it until it causes severe health problems like pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility later in life. "Chlamydia's a stealth bomber," said one gynecologist. The true impact on public health of the rise in STDs may not be felt for many years.