Be Aware of STD's

April is Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) awareness month.

Here’s the bad news. According to the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sexually transmitted diseases and infections are at epidemic proportions. In the U.S. more than 65 million people are living with an incurable STD. It is estimated that 19 million new cases will be diagnosed this year. Overall, it is estimated that one in four Americans have an STD.

In the 1960’s there were only two recognizable STD's; Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Today, there are over 25. Young people under the age of 25 account for nearly half of all cases. Many are unaware of the presence of an STD confirming that this epidemic deserves the coined phrase; "The Silent Epidemic."

Getting tested and undergoing treatment is vital to reducing the continued consequences of these diseases. Because many infections have no symptoms, those at risk (sexually active and/or have changed sexual partners) need to get tested and find out if they are infected.

Here’s the good news. One can live a healthy life without concern of this "Silent Epidemic." Clearly, those who are not sexually active are not at risk for contracting a sexually transmitted disease or infection. Living a life of faithfulness to one’s spouse by being sexually abstinent outside the boundary of marriage is the only way to fully eliminate the risk of exposure.

Not only is living a lifestyle of sexual integrity the healthiest lifestyle choice but it is an attainable goal as well. Knowing the facts and applying them to our lives is pivotal. Be informed and make healthy choices.

Tracey Pike, Director of Community Education