Free STD Testing in Hampton, VA

With picturesque Chesapeake Bay in the background it can be difficult to accept that this historic city is currently seeing a rapid increase in transmitted diseases reported each year.

In 2010 the area had the second highest number of Chlamydia incidents in the U.S. and ranked third in the nation for Gonorrhea. The city also has the dubious distinction of having soaring HIV/AIDS rates. Over the past few years these numbers have significantly increased, though Chlamydia diagnoses may be on the decline. These alarming statistics has resulted in the director of Eastern Virginia Medical School to refer to the problem as an “epidemic”.

Some of the statistics released over the past twenty years that show how quickly these diseases can spread,

• African American residents accounted for 76 percent of the Gonorrhea diagnoses between 2005 and 2009.
• In 2010 area clinics were consistently treating around 2,000 HIV positive residents a day.
• HIV rates rose 93 percent in men ages 13 to 24 during the five year period from 2001 to 2006.

Even with statistics showing that Hampton and the other six cities in the area are currently seeing an “STD epidemic”, officials and parents are still reluctant to implement programs in the public school system.

Instead of providing students with the information they need to protect themselves, educators are still relying on the outdated programs recommended by the federal government. While the area does receive much needed funding for teaching abstinence only, the extra money is not covering the skyrocketing health care costs that are caused by the increase in STDs.

Regular Herpes testing in Hampton is important for teens and adults, and it is the only way to completely eradicate the virus. Regular HIV testing in Hampton is also critical, and with at least one new case being reported in the area each day it is also the smart thing to do to protect yourself.

The diverse demographics of the area might add to its appeal, but it is also affects STIs. The region is home to one of the nation’s largest naval bases and the constant influx of sailors on leave is a contributing factor. Even though the Navy is actively stepping up its STD awareness program, many officials worry that it might not be enough to make a difference. STD testing is now a required part of an annual physical, but this still gives someone plenty of time to unknowingly spread the disease.

What truly caused Hampton and the other six cities in the metropolitan area to see STD rates soar was the recent budget cuts that forced many clinics and health care facilities to shut down. With more than one million dollars lost in funding, many neighborhood education programs were also forced to suspend education.

Strong conservative and religious beliefs have made it almost impossible for health care professionals to inform residents about the dangers associated with STDs. With the number of new diagnoses increasing each year and more budget cuts looming for the few remaining clinics, health officials warn that the STD rates are only going to increase.

As STD rates continue to soar, many residents still aren’t paying attention to their sexual health. With plenty to see and do in the historic city and a shortage of community centers, it is easy to put off getting testing. Even using protection during sexual activity and being careful won’t always prevent a STD.

http://hamptonroads.com/2007/10/abstinence-only-sex-education