The Hidden Epidemic: Confronting Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Abstract:
In 1994, the Institute of Medicine convened the Committee on Prevention and Control of STDs to examine the epidemiological dimensions of STDs in the U.S. and factors that contribute to the epidemic; to assess the effectiveness of current public health strategies and programs to prevent and control STDs; and to provide direction for future public health programs, policy, and research in STD prevention and control. The committee recommended four major strategies to establish a national system for STD prevention: overcoming barriers to adoption of healthy sexual behaviors; developing strong leadership, strengthening investment, and improving information systems for STD prevention; designing and implementing essential STD-related services in innovative ways for adolescents and underserved populations; and ensuring access to and quality of essential clinical services for STDs. The committee noted that a major part of a national strategy to prevent STDs should focus on adolescents, and that interventions should begin before sexual activity is initiated, which may be before adolescence is reached. Moreover, the committee stated that all school districts in the U.S. should ensure that schools provide essential, age-appropriate STD-related services--including health education, access to condoms, and readily accessible and available clinical services, such as school-based clinical services, to prevent STDs.

Author(s): The Committee on Prevention and Control of STDs

Publication: SIECUS Report


Date Published: 2/1/1997

Pages: 14

Comments:
This article is reprinted from the executive summary of 'The Hidden Epidemic: Confronting Sexually Transmitted Diseases,' a 392-page report by the same committee. The full report is available for $39.95 (plus $4 shipping/handling for the first copy and $0.50 for each additional copy) by calling (800) 624-6242.

Location Code: 6270