Silent STD on the Rise in Pennsylvania, Data Show

Reported chlamydia cases in Pennsylvania have more than doubled since 1998 to 47,521 in 2010, provisional state Health Department data show, despite a requirement that public high schools provide health education and regular messages to abstain or practice safe sex.

Chlamydia's rise is most pronounced among people ages 15-24, state and local health officials say. As of 2007, nearly three-quarters of cases statewide were in that age group. "That's who we're focusing on," said Steve Kowalewski, senior public health adviser for the STD program at the state Health Department. The main drivers of the bacterial infection are unprotected sex and multiple sex partners, he said.

Many people with chlamydia are unaware of their infection, since the STD is often symptomless. Because of that, chlamydia is "seriously" underreported, said Allentown Health Bureau Director Vicki Kistler.

Kowalewski said Pennsylvania's rise in chlamydia "is a true increase in the disease burden" and is not a reflection of better detection.

All sexually active young people should get tested annually for STDs, say doctors.

The Friends of AIDS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for HIV positive individuals and empowering people to make healthy choices to prevent the spread of the HIV virus. To learn more about The Friends of AIDS Foundation, please visit: http://www.friendsofaids.org.


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