The Threat of STDs

The Threat of STDs

            Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are a serious, ongoing health issue for communities worldwide. During the year of 2012, there were more than 36,150 reported cases of STDs in Missouri alone. Of these, Clay County contributed to a whopping 1,018 of these reported cases (MDHSS, 2013). STDs can cause many problems including sexual discomfort, fertility/pregnancy issues, and increased susceptibility to infection (CDC, 2013). However, communities can help contain and treat the issues of STDs by taking preventative measures.

            

Syphilis is one of the major reportable STDs still found spreading throughout the state. It is caused by bacteria and can be spread via syphilis sores caused by the bacterium. It can be transmitted through sexual, anal, or oral intercourse and pregnant mothers can easily pass it on to their unborn child (CDC, 2013). Symptoms of syphilis include, sores, rashes, lesions, fevers, fatigue, weight loss, headaches, gradual blindness and can even lead to dementia, paralysis, or death. Syphilis, like many other STDs, also causes the host to be 2-5 times more likely to contract the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, also known as HIV (CDC, 2013). Although syphilis can be treated, it is better to prevent the spread of this infection through use of condoms or the practice of abstinence.

            The second most reported STD within Clay County is Gonorrhea (MDHSS, 2013). This STD is also bacteria-based and grows in moist areas such as the uterus, cervix, urethra, mouth throat eyes and anus. As with syphilis, gonorrhea can be transmitted through sexual, anal, or oral intercourse as well as via a pregnant mom to her unborn child (CDC, 2013). Symptoms for both men and women include, pain/discomfort, burning sensations, bleeding, soreness, itching and even discharge of the infected area. Different tests are used to detect gonorrhea and can be cured with the right form of treatment. This infection can cause many complications with birth as well as increase the risk of contracting HIV. Practicing safe sex or abstinence are both effective forms of prevention (CDC, 2013).

            The third reportable STD, as well as the number one reported STD within the County and Country, is Chlamydia (MDHSS, 2013). This bacterial infection is spread through sexual, anal, or oral intercourse as well as during childbirth. The CDC states, “A large number of cases are not reported because most people with chlamydia do not have symptoms and do not seek testing” (CDC, 2013). Chlamydia is often referred to as a “Silent Infection” do to most people not experiencing any symptoms. This becomes especially dangerous for women because it can cause infertility or complications with pregnancy and birth. This infection can be lab tested and easily treated and cured with antibiotics, but prevention through safe sex or abstinence is the best way to reduce the risk of further complications (CDC, 2013). If untreated, it too can increase the risk of becoming infected with HIV.

           

            AIDS is the final and most serious stage of HIV that can cause severe damage to the immune system. HIV can be spread through both genital and oral intercourse. To prevent AIDS, the HIV virus needs to be completely avoided. One technique for prevention is practicing safe sex or abstinence (CDC, 2010). Using a condom helps prevent the transfer of bodily fluids from partner to partner. Avoiding coming into contact with other people’s blood and the usage of injected drugs also reduces risks. Furthermore, treating other forms of STDs can also help reduce the risk of contracting this deadly virus. There is no cure as of right now, so prevention is the best possible method available to keep the virus from spreading (CDC, 2010). Through the use of safe sex practices and understanding how each of these STDs function, we can help prevent the spread of infection and reduce the frequency of reported cases within the county, state, and nation.

Citations

Chlamydia. (2013, February 11). In Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.             Retrieved September 11, 2013, from             http://www.cdc.gov/STD/chlamydia/default.htm

Gonorrhea. (2013, February 11). In Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.             Retrieved September 11, 2013, from             http://www.cdc.gov/STD/gonorrhea/default.htm

HIV/AIDS & STDs. (2010, September 1). In Centers for Disease Control and             Prevention. Retrieved September 11, 2013, from             http://www.cdc.gov/STD/hiv/default.htm

Reportable Sexually Transmitted Diseases. (2013, May 15). In Missouri Department of             Health and Senior Services. Retrieved September 11, 2013, from             http://health.mo.gov/data/hivstdaids/pdf/STD2012.pdf

STDs & Pregnancy. (2013, August 1). In Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.             Retrieved September 11, 2013, from             http://www.cdc.gov/STD/pregnancy/default.htm

Syphilis. (2013, February 11). In Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved             September 11, 2013, from http://www.cdc.gov/STD/syphilis/default.htm