Private MD News

Health groups battle rising STD rates

Category: Chlamydia

In the face of rising gonorrhea, syphilis and Chlamydia infections, many health organizations across the country are launching new initiatives aimed at making STD testing more available.

These organizations believe that rates of infection will begin to decrease if everyone receives an STD test. By knowing whether or not they are infected, individuals can take steps to reduce their risky behavior which may contribute to the spread of diseases.

AIDS Community Resources, a nonprofit group based in Watertown, New York, recently launched a program to provide free STD testing and education for local residents, according to the Watertown Daily Times. The area has seen a significant increase in infections in the last few years, and the initiative is aimed at addressing the situation.

"By us not providing, or having the ability to provide, education for people, that's a weakness in the community," Wil Murtaugh, the agency's director of development, told the news source. "Now, people can call and request an appointment."

STD rates are rising across the country. For example, the rate of Chlamydia infection has nearly doubled since 1997, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.