Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually Transmitted Infections

In the U.S. alone there are approximately 19 million new cases of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) each year. STIs affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and from all walks of life, but some populations are hit especially hard:

  • About half of all new STIs occur among young people ages 15-24.
  • Women are especially vulnerable and with common infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea, often have no symptoms. Undetected, these infections can lead to complications including Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), a serious infection of a woman's reproductive organs. Left untreated, PID can cause infertility.
  • Communities of color also bear a disproportionate burden of STIs. African Americans are only 13% of the U.S. population, for example, yet account for approximately half of all new HIV cases.

Many STIs can be cured, and those that cannot (such as HIV, herpes, and HPV) can usually be effectively managed with a combination of proper treatment and follow-up exams. In spite of published guidelines and the availability of reliable tests and effective therapies, screening rates with most STIs remain low. Most young women are not tested for chlamydia, for example, though the CDC recommends annual screening for all sexually active females under age 25.

Barriers to increased uptake of screening include lack of financial resources and insurance. The issue is much more complex, however: simple things such as time, transportation, and a fear of testing make clinic visits daunting for many. Poverty, distrust of health systems, and myriad other social factors and inequities complicate matters for others, especially young people and youth of color. A simple lack of awareness of being at risk is also an impediment.

Stigma plays a role, as health care providers and patients alike are often uncomfortable discussing STIs and sexual health. The broad emotional impact of being diagnosed with an STI can be overwhelming, often resulting in patients and their partners experiencing a profound sense of shame and frustration.

A holistic approach is needed that blends STI prevention, screening, treatment, and support programs into a seamless collaboration. Dismantling stereotypes and assumptions around who gets STIs, and why, is also critical. Important steps like these allow an STI resource model to develop that effectively protects individuals, families, and communities from STIs and their harmful consequences.

(This information was provided by The American Social Health Association. For more information, click here.)

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