What is a Sexually Transmitted Disease?
An STD is a type of infection that is spread through some sort of sexual activity. There are a variety of STDs which ranging from HIV, herpes, HPV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Some STD’s have severe and obvious symptoms, but some go undetected, causing people to be unaware that they are at risk. Bacterial STD’s can often be cured, but viral STD’s can only be treated, not cured.
How Prevalent are Sexually Transmitted Diseases?
According to the American Social Health Association, “approximately 18.9 million new cases of STDs (excluding HIV) occur each year in the U.S. More than half of all people will be infected with an STD at some point in their lifetime.” (Sexually Transmitted Diseases, ASHA, 2008).
Are Teens at Risk for STDs?
Teens are often at increased risk for STDs compared to other age groups. This is likely due to the fact that teens are more likely to have unprotected sex as well as multiple partners. A lack of available information about prevention and treatment options, as well as a perceived stigma surrounding STD’s, may also deter teens from seeking help when they need it.
National STD Awareness Month
ASHA recognizes April as National STD Awareness Month, with a primary focus on testing. The slogan, “Take Control. Get The Facts. Get Tested.” emphasizes the utilization of information to empower people to take charge of their sexual health. Testing and early treatment can often markedly improve outcomes, so it’s important to be tested as soon as possible.
How to Prevent STDs
The only surefire way to prevent an STD is to avoid sexual contact with an infected person. But because many STD’s go undetected, it can be difficult to be sure that someone is uninfected. Abstinence and delaying sexual activity are the most effective prevention means for teens, but for many, abstaining from sexual behavior is an unrealistic expectation.
Condom use and other safer sex measures are also worthwhile prevention measures. According to Don Clark, Executive Director of NCSD, “Condoms have proven value in reducing the transmission of Chlamydia, HIV, and other STDs.”
Get the Facts on STDs
Check out ASHA’s website for more info on STDs. Their site includes tons of useful stuff like fact sheets, newsletters, a product catalog, an STD message board, and a Resource Center Hotline. There’s also a short video on proper condom use and lots of links to related sites.
ASHA also sponsored iwannaknow, a website geared towards teens that covers STD prevention and treatment information in a teen friendly way. There is also a teen forum, information about changes that occur during puberty, and an informative section on the risks presented by tattoos and body piercings.
Help your kids get the information they need to make wise and healthy choices about their sexual behavior and health.
You may also be interested in Teen Pregnancy Prevention or Sexual Assault Awareness.
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