Free STD Testing in Downey, CA

Syphilis cases are nearly two points higher in the county of LA than they are in the neighboring Riverside county. It ranks number one of all counties in the nation. It also ranks first for Chlamydia. Gonorrhea is more common with men who have slightly higher numbers than women. Of these men, those who have male to male sex are at the highest risk. These men also have higher incidences of Chlamydia and Syphilis infections simultaneously Data collection helps in determining risk.

The information that is collected for each client is helpful in putting together an overall picture of what is happening with the STD crisis. It shows patterns that include consistently higher rates among particular age groups, genders, ethnicities and financial statuses for certain STDs. African Americans have the highest rates for each type of STD addressed here with Native Americans/Native Alaskans coming in second and Hispanics coming in with the third highest rates for this region.

Because trends and patterns in the spread of STDs has been identified, it gives health officials an idea of what type of strategies will work the best in reaching those in the greatest need. Poverty is an indicator of risk. This is because there is generally a lack of financial resources to get testing and treatment. In addition, the people in this group may have less exposure to education and information that would help them to better care for their sexual health.

Even though the public schools provide mandatory sex ed classes to all students, the numbers for teen infections are still very high, coming in second for Chlamydia. After completing these courses, they will know about Herpes or other STD testing, but many of them are not using these resources. This means that more needs to be allocated to reach teens and provide testing and treatment for them.

Education is the only hope for slowing the growing STD rate. This must be followed by citizens who are willing to take responsibility for their own sexual health by getting tested and if necessary, medical treatment.

The greatest obstacle to getting tested for some is a lack of knowledge. Some do not know that they are at risk or may even be infected with an STD. Not all of these diseases have symptoms in the beginning stages so the only way to be certain is to have the testing done. There are people who may be embarrassed and afraid that someone they know will find out that they were tested. Current privacy laws are designed to prevent anyone from finding out unless you tell them. Staff at STD testing clinics are discreet and professional. They are bound by law and ethics to keep your information completely confidential.

The greatest risk factor for STD infection is having unprotected sex with somebody who has an STD. You cannot tell by looking and they may not have any noticable symptoms. If you have multiple sexual partners then you are increasing your risk exponentially. This is particularly true if your partners also have sex with other people. Living in a high risk area also ups the odds. The solution to the problem is to get tested so you will know for sure. You’ll have your results quickly so you can either get the treatment that you need, or enjoy the relief in knowing you are sexually healthy. Take the time to learn about safe sex practices.