Which phenomenon has contributed to the worldwide spread of sexually transmitted infections?

The phenomenon that has contributed significantly to the worldwide spread of sexually transmitted infections is the increase in international travel. With the rise of globalization, people are traveling across borders more frequently for tourism, work, or personal reasons. This increased mobility allows sexually transmitted infections to spread more readily, as individuals may engage in sexual activities in various locations, exposing themselves and others to infections that they might not encounter in their home communities.

The nature of international travel can include transient interactions and high-risk behaviors in new environments, which can facilitate the transmission of these infections. In addition, travelers may have limited access to healthcare resources and awareness of local health issues, compounding the risk of spreading or contracting infections.

While global migration patterns also play a role, emphasizing how movement between countries can lead to the exchange of health issues, the immediate and tangible actions taken by individuals during travel are a direct factor in the spread of infections. Therefore, increased international travel provides a clear link to the rise in sexually transmitted infections on a global scale.