Private MD News

Young people may benefit from STD testing

Category: Sexually Transmitted Diseases

STD testing is generally thought of something that is most important for college-age individuals and young adults. However, experts are increasingly warning that younger children are sexually active, too, which puts them at risk for contracting an infection.

Neely Grace, the health and physical education teacher at Richmond County Ninth Grade Academy, told the Daily Journal that abstinence is the only 100 percent proven method of preventing sexually transmitted diseases. However, children as young as middle school-age may engage in sexual activity. This makes education critical.

"I think it’s important that students are well-informed that sexually transmitted diseases and infections are prevalent, and can impact anyone, regardless of race, age, gender or background," she told the news source.

She said that there are many different diseases out that can be contracted through sexual activity. Young people should be aware of these and understand their risks.

Furthermore, sexually active young people should seek STD testing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said that this is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of infections.