According to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the rate of infection for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) in the City of St. Louis has dropped. Health Department officials attributed the improvements to a partnership formed with community groups to increase testing and education. Despite the improvement, Health Department executive Pamela Walker emphasized that STDs still remain a major health issue requiring a coordinated community of efforts.
St. Louis dropped from the number one to the number two rankings for both Chlamydia and Gonorrhea based on rate; and stayed at number 16 for Syphilis. However, St. Louis is one of just two cities on the national report that are not included in a larger county. Therefore, St. Louis only represents the metropolitan area’s urban core, and does not represent an accurate picture of the burden of the disease on the area.
In 2008, 94 fewer persons had Chlamydia and 387 fewer persons had Gonorrhea in the City of St. Louis than in 2007. This represents a 2.1% decrease in Chlamydia and a 26.7% decrease in Gonorrhea. Over half the Chlamydia and Gonorrhea cases are among the City’s youth.
“Although the City of St. Louis appears to be headed in the right direction, there is no acceptable level of STDs, especially in our youth.” said Pamela Walker, Interim Director of Health. “Educating youth—and encouraging parents to speak candidly about the dangers of STDs and how to protect themselves—will remain a priority.”
In 2008, the City of St. Louis, in partnership with multiple community providers, worked to increase testing and education for the community with a focus on education for young people and those most at risk for the disease. City Department of Health also worked to ensure that medical providers were aware of the changes in medications and treatment for Gonorrhea and vaccine for HPV (Human papillomavirus).
The Health Department is reminding St. Louis residents that the only way to have no risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease or infection is to abstain from sexual activity. For those who choose not to practice abstinence, monogamous relations and safe sex are recommended by the Health Department. Sexually active individuals are advised to make sure they include a test for all STDs—including those that are not always apparent, like Chlamydia—in annual physical examinations. The Health Department also urges residents to consult with physicians regarding vaccinations for Hepatitis B and HPV which can cause serious illness (like cancer) later in life.
STDs are 100% preventable. The release of the CDC 2008 STD Surveillance Report is a reminder for parents and guardians to talk to their children about the risks of STDs and how to prevent getting them. The report is a reminder to all residents to reflect on behaviors that place them at higher risk for STDs and obtain additional information on how to protect yourself and, if necessary, your partner.
For additional information about STDs and how to protect yourself, contact the City of St. Louis Health Department at 314-612-5188.