Obituary: King K. Holmes, Pioneering STD Researcher

King K. Holmes, an esteemed infectious disease specialist from the University of Washington, revolutionized the study of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and passed away on March 9, 2023, at his Seattle home following a battle with kidney disease. He was 87 years old.

A Legacy of Change in STI Research

Often affectionately referred to as "Mr. STD" by colleagues, Dr. Holmes was a pivotal figure in transforming a neglected and stigmatized subject into a vibrant field of scientific research. He established some of the first specialized clinics for STIs and was a pioneer in advocating the use of single-dose treatments as prophylaxis following potential exposure to infections. His authoritative textbook on the subject, commonly known as “Holmes,” became a definitive guide in the field.

Transforming Stigma into Awareness

Judith Wasserheit, a colleague, once noted, “He brought sexually transmitted diseases out of the closet.” Dr. Holmes dedicated his career to researching various facets of STIs, from diagnostics to treatment methods, during a time when these discussions were taboo. In the 1960s, as societal norms were shifting amid the sexual revolution, he confronted the medical community's indifference toward these issues, dubbing it a "conspiracy of silence."

Challenging the Silence

Dr. Holmes was unflinching in his critique of the lack of funding and research prioritization in STI studies. He famously remarked that the silence surrounding STIs was "ignorant, appalling, and a disgrace." Through his frank approach, he managed to foster collaboration among epidemiologists, microbiologists, and physicians to devise innovative solutions for prevention and treatment.

Innovative Publications and Contributions

One of Dr. Holmes' notable contributions came in the form of his 1976 book, co-written with Jennifer Wear, titled *How to Have Intercourse Without Getting Screwed*. The book's humorous, candid tone earned it praise within the medical community for making sensitive subjects accessible. In fact, a review in *The Western Journal of Medicine* described it as "informative, competently written, quite relevant," and highlighted its engaging style.

Collaboration with Public Health Initiatives

In the early 1970s, Dr. Holmes successfully partnered with Seattle's public health department to establish a treatment clinic for STIs, allowing researchers to analyze patient outcomes and data. This model of collaboration between academic institutions and public health programs became a benchmark for tackling infectious diseases effectively.

A Champion During the AIDS Crisis

Additionally, during the AIDS crisis of the 1980s, Dr. Holmes spearheaded the establishment of a multidisciplinary clinic in Seattle that addressed the urgent needs of infected individuals, showcasing his unwavering commitment to public health.

Educational Background and Unexpected Path to STI Research

Dr. Holmes graduated from Harvard University in 1959 and earned his medical degree from Cornell University in 1963, followed by a doctorate in microbiology from the University of Hawaii in 1967. Interestingly, his foray into STI research was somewhat unexpected; serving as an epidemiologist in the Navy during the Vietnam War, he encountered a significant issue with penicillin-resistant gonorrhea, which ultimately prompted his lifelong commitment to this field.

Pioneering Treatment Protocols

His first major study was conducted aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise, where sailors often engaged with sex workers during port visits. The aftermath frequently prompted a surge of gonorrhea cases, leading Dr. Holmes to innovate a single-dose treatment protocol that has since become a standard recommendation by health authorities like the CDC and WHO.

A Lasting Legacy

Dr. King K. Holmes leaves behind a legacy that will continue to influence the realms of infectious disease research and public health for generations to come, reminding us of the importance of addressing stigmatized topics head-on. As we reflect on his immense contributions, one cannot help but wonder how different the landscape of sexual health might be had he not championed these vital issues.