Prevention Matters

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are still on the rise, with an estimated 1.4 million cases in the United States. That's according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which released the 2007 Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance data today. It also shows continuing racial disparities, and a heavy burden of disease among women.

The Chlamydia rate in women was found to be three times that of men, and although it is easily diagnosed and treated, it’s often asymptomatic and goes undetected. When left untreated, Chlamydia can cause infertility—affecting a woman’s chance to have children later in life. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all sexually active women age 25 years and younger be screened each year for Chlamydia infection. Screening and treatment with antibiotics can prevent pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and other reproductive health problems.

Partnership for Prevention has joined CDC in an effort to prevent these lifelong consequences of untreated STDs. Along with eight other organizations that make up the steering committee, Partnership is leading the recently established National Chlamydia Coalition, whose mission is to reduce the rates of Chlamydia and its harmful effects among sexually active adolescent and young adults.

To join the mailing list for the National Chlamydia Coalition, send an email to cjohnson@prevent.org