Warn kids about risks of sexually transmitted diseases

Sexually transmitted disease cases are rising at an alarming rate. Why? One reason may be the Texas legislature dropped a high school health class from the list of courses required for graduation. The class is now optional.

In a proactive response, Lubbock Health Board members agreed to write a letter to Lubbock Independent School District administration and board members asking them to reconsider dropping the requiring of a health class for graduation.

Let’s look at the data. Last year Lubbock County saw 19.9 cases of syphilis per 100,000, said Bob Martinez, communicable disease manager for the Texas Department of State Health Services in Lubbock. In 2005 that rate was 2.4 cases per 100,000 — that’s an increase of more than 800 percent. While that figure is alarming, it is below the state average. That’s really scary. Up more than 800 percent and still below the state.

But we are above the state in numbers of gonorrhea and chlamydia cases with our 15-24 year olds. What a dubious honor to beat the state. And Texas ranks above the nation in these two areas — so we are ahead of the nation also.

If one is sexually active, the best way to prevent against bacterial diseases like chlamydia and gonorrhea is to use a latex condom, health experts said. Condoms also protect against HIV infections and give some protection against syphilis, reported the A-J’s Sarah Nightingale.

If you or your partner has engaged in risky sexual activity, such as not using protection, get tested.

All testing performed in the sexually transmitted disease clinic at the city health department is confidential. The patient is the only person with access to records or test results unless a signed consent is provided to release records to another person.

Fee for services in the STD clinic are $20 per person and includes routine testing for gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV. There is an additional $10 charge if you are referred to see the physician for treatment of certain STDs.

The STD clinic is by appointment only, however. Call 775-2933 at 8 a.m. to schedule an appointment. This is important because clinic days vary.

Also, please be aware your appointment in the STD clinic will need to be delayed if you currently are on antibiotics or have been on antibiotics in past two weeks, and under certain other conditions.

Parents aren’t getting it done and schools have cut back in their emphasis. What is the answer? One has to be found.

source: lubbockonline