The Impact of Chlamydia on our Community

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a growing problem in our country today. According to estimations calculated by The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are over 19 million new STD infections every year. STDs are highly preventable with the use of prophylactics. When left untreated, STDs can cause a number of complications including reproductive health problems, fetal and perinatal problems, and cancer. Complications are seen more frequently in women than in men (insert healthy ppl ref). Economic, behavioral, and social factors play a role in the spread of STDs. Infection rates among African Americans and Hispanics are higher in comparison to Caucasians. Economic status is correlated to these increased rates. Those of low economic status are less likely to have access to healthcare and/or other preventable measures. Generally speaking Americans have a discomfort about discussing sex and this is one of the most pressing social factors that contribute to the spread of STDs (insert healthy ppl ref). Chlamydia is one of the most prevalent STDs. It is a bacterial infection transmitted through oral, anal and vaginal sexual interactions. It is most prevalent amongst younger adult’s ages 15-29, but the highest segment at risk is ages 15-19( hp2020 ref). Healthy People 2020 is an initiative managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It sets a 10 year agenda each decade aimed at improving overall health in Americans. In 2008, 7.4% of females ages 15-19 who were seen at family planning clinics in the past 12 months, tested positive for Chlamydia. Healthy People 2020 used this as a baseline to set their 10 year goal to reduce the rate of Chlamydia infection to 6.7% in this population (hp 2020). According to the Ohio Department of Health, in 2008 44% of all new