Free STD Testing in Worcester, MA

STD testing is performed by STD testing centers, private physicians and hospitals. Each of these providers submit information about STD testing results to local health departments who in turn forward this data to the center for disease control for further analysis. No personal information is shared so client identities are kept private. Demographic information including gender, age, ethnic background, type of testing and area of residence are provided. This information is used to help in determining which groups of people are at the highest risk for specific sexually transmitted disease infection. The following data shows the percent of persons who have tested positive in this area, per 100,000 in population.

• Chlamydia- 349.2
• Gonorrhea- 46.7
• Syphilis- 14.9

These statistics are based solely upon the numbers of people who have been tested. Health department officials believe that the actual numbers would rise significantly if all people who are in the highest risk groups would get tested.

The alarming numbers of teens who are testing positive for STDs has fueled the drive for more intensive efforts to reach them with the facts about the dangers of unprotected sex. Unwanted pregnancy and STD infection are discussed along with information about how to prevent these and what to do if a young person suspects they may have an STD. State authorities have mandated the inclusion of sexual health education classes in all public schools. The goal is to reach students just prior to the age at which some of them may begin sexual experimentation. Upon completion of these courses, students will know where to go for a Herpes test and how to obtain HIV testing in Worcester, MA.

Health officials believe that there is a relationship between poverty and increased risk for contracting an STD. This city has a fair amount of residents who are at or below established poverty standards. It is believed that among them, many have not had access to the same quality of education and the lack of information may cause them to not understand their risks for STD infection. Some STDs present few or no symptoms in the beginning stages and persons who are not aware that they are infected may inadvertently spread the infection to others, worsening the problem.

In addition to this, people who lack the financial resources to obtain STD testing and treatment my avoid making an appointment because they cannot afford it. Even though free STD testing services are available, these are often on a limited basis until annual funding accounts are depleted. There may be a waiting period for funding cycles to replenish, leaving those in need of testing without a place to turn.

Certain types of STDs are more common in specific groups of people. Health department professionals who analyze the data have identified definite trends and patterns that help in identifying who is at the highest risk for particular diseases. Chlamydia is most common in women who have nearly twice the number of cases as men. The numbers are highest in the 20-24 age group, followed by those who are 15 to 19. Those of African American descent have the highest incidences of positive test results, followed by Hispanics, Native American/Alaskan Native and then Whites.

Gonorrhea is more common in men than in women, although rates are high for each gender. Blacks make up the largest percentage followed by Hispanics and Whites. Syphilis is less common, but rates are still alarming and have increased in the past ten years. Men have higher incidences than women and in particular, men who have sex with other males are considered to be in the highest risk category. In addition to this, these men often test positive with dual diagnoses of Syphilis and HIV or Chlamydia.

Understanding which groups are at the highest risk for each of these sexually transmitted diseases is needed for the development of educational campaigns which can more effectively reach the people who need the information the most. Local health care providers, STD clinics and social workers provide free literature and public informational sessions which are free to the pubic in an attempt to reach more with this needed information about risk, prevention, identification of symptoms and where to get tested.

Anyone who has had unprotected sex with multiple partners or a partner who engages in sex with others is in a category of significant risk. Often, there are no initial symptoms so the only way to know for certain is to get tested. You can get confidential STD testing so your privacy will be protected and you can get the results that you need. Ordering your STD testing is easy and to complete the process, you’ll only need to commit to less than a half hour of your time for a visit to a local lab. Friendly and professional lab technicians are available to assist you and to answer any questions that you may have about the process and when to expect your testing results. You owe it to yourself and to everyone who loves you to maintain the best possible health. After your quick lab visit, you’ll get the results shortly. If they are positive, you will be able to begin the needed treatments and if they are negative you’ll enjoy greater peace of mind.

Reference:

http://www.cdc.gov/std/stats13/tables/24.htm