Prevalence Of STDs In The United States

It is a well-known fact that STDs in the United States have become a big health risk. STDs are a chronic problem since, in all age groups, untreated cases can result in serious health problems. Given that STDs severity to one’s health it is high time to address the issue. It is important to raise awareness amongst US citizens about STDs and the importance of STD testing. 

In this blog, we’ll analyze the rising issue, highlighting the data, patterns, and safety measures one can follow to be safe from this disease. To guarantee that you are provided with the information you must protect both the health of other people and your sexual well-being, we’ll also go over how to be tested for STDs in the US.

Current situation of STDs in the United States

The increasing counts of STI cases in the United States. According to their most recent data published in 2021, there is a significant increase in reported cases in the United States which is a public health concern. According to the sources it states STDs are spreading to millions of Americans every year.

 

• Chlamydia: In the United States, Chlamydia is the most registered case. From every single state as well as the District of Columbia, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) received reports of over 1,644,614 cases of Chlamydia in 2021. More than men, women are affected by these diseases mostly affected young aged between 15 to 24.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): One of the most common STDs, HPV affects around 42 million people in the United States at present. HPV causes health problems like Genital Warts and cancer.
• Gonorrhea: Another widespread STD is Gonorrhea; reports of the illness from each of the 50 states of the United States have been sent to the CDC, totaling 710,151 cases. As with Chlamydia, women and children are affected out of proportion affected by Gonorrhea. 
• Syphilis: In 2021, there were 176,713 newly reported cases of Syphilis (all stages), a bacterial infection that goes through distinct stages. According to the STD Surveillance Report, 2021, they represent  36% of all cases of primary and secondary (P&S) Syphilis. If this illness is not addressed, there may be dreadful consequences. 
• Herpes: The Herpes Simplex Virus which is also known as HSV is the cause of genital and oral Herpes. Data from the CDC suggests that every year 572,000 cases of genital Herpes are registered in the USA. Since not every Herpes patient gets tested or diagnosed, it is difficult to pinpoint the precise number of scenarios.

Trends and Factors Contributing to STD Prevalence

Several reasons are contributing to the high number of STDs, including: 

 

• Lack of Education: A significant number of people are not informed about STDs, their transmission, and prevention.
• Inconsistent Condom Use: Condoms are an effective way to prevent the transmission of many STDs, but inconsistent or improper use remains a problem. 
• Stigma and Shame: The stigma associated with STDs can prevent individuals from seeking testing and treatment. Reducing stigma and promoting open communication is essential. 
• Lack of Proper Healthcare: Limited access to healthcare services can hinder individuals from getting tested and treated for STDs. Inexpensive healthcare access can help in mitigating the risk of STD spreading.
• Drug and Alcohol Use: Substance use can lead to risky sexual behavior and contribute to the spread of STDs. Addressing substance abuse issues is crucial in reducing infection rates. 
• Asymptomatic Infections: Some STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning that individuals may not show any visible signs of infection. This can lead to unknowing transmission to partners.

Impact of STDs on Health

STDs can have a significant impact on individuals’ health and well-being. Not treating them can cause multiple complications, including:-

• Infertility: If not treated well gonorrhea and Chlamydia can develop Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women which may ultimately result in infertility.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: Chlamydia and Gonorrhea can be life-damaging infections and increase the risk of ectopic pregnancies.
• Organ Damage: Syphilis, if not treated, can progress to the late stage, causing organ damage and potentially death.
• Cervical and Other Cancers: Specific variants of HPV can develop cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers which are terrible for one’s health.
• Neonatal Complications: Pregnant individuals with untreated STDs can transmit the infection to their newborns, leading to serious health issues in infants.

Prevention and Early Diagnosis

In the United States reducing STDs can be a combination of a variety of things such as awareness, health care, and education. Listing down a few plans of action to address this issue:

• Safe Sex Education: Detailed sex education programs should help an individual with proper knowledge and skills that can help to protect themselves from STDs. These awareness programs should promote the proper use of condoms, the importance of regular testing, and communication with partners about their sexual health.
• Regular Testing: Regular STD testing is a crucial step in early diagnosis and treatment. Routine screenings are recommended for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners.
• Vaccination: Vaccines are easily available in the market which can help in defending against STD and HPV vaccine can help you from getting affected by multiple types of cancer.
• Promoting Condom Use: Consistent use and proper use of condoms should be promoted during sexual activity as a fruitful way to not spread STDs.
• Accessible Healthcare: Expanding access to affordable healthcare, including STD testing and treatment services, can help ensure that individuals get the care they need.

Choose Affordable Rapid Testing to avail the best STD testing services in the US

The main difficulty that the United States is facing with respect to public health right now is the widespread of STDs. Fortunately, quick and affordable STD testing options are widely accessible, addressing the urgent need for early detection and treatment of these infections. 

Affordable Rapid Testing in Arizona is your best choice for sexual health testing due to its provision of FDA-approved tests with same-day results, ensuring rapid and accurate care. The facility excels in maintaining confidentiality, fostering a judgment-free environment, and its commitment to making healthcare accessible at an affordable cost, making it a top-notch option. Please visit the Affordable Rapid Testing page for more information.