Private MD News

Colorado schools use STD testing to stop disease

Category: Chlamydia

Young people between the ages of 14 and 24 are significantly more likely to contract a sexually transmitted disease, and many experts feel that more must be done to stem the problem.

Educational efforts are underway across the country to teach high school students the importance of practicing safer sex, but some schools have taken even further steps to stop the spread of infections.

The Denver Times recently reported on Colorado schools that have healthcare centers at middle and high schools that offer everything from STD testing to pregnancy testing. The centers also offer information and advice to teens who may be sexually active.

"When it comes to adolescent health, the reproductive piece often gets overlooked, sometimes intentionally," said Melinda Gonzales, director of adolescent health programs for the Colorado Association for School-Based Healthcare. "Most people are supportive but they just don’t know how much such programs are needed. And a few are vocal in their opposition."

Many feel that programs like these can help reduce the number of infections, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that STD testing is one of the most effective ways to stop diseases from spreading.