CDC report finds gonorrhea down, chlamydia steady

The national rates of some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), like gonorrhea, have continued to drop, according to a 2009 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Nevertheless, those rates have not dropped across the board.

The report finds that gonorrhea is at its lowest ever recorded level. Likewise, syphilis has not increased in either women or congenitally in infants.

Much of this trend is attributed to rising rates of STD screening, particularly for diseases like chlamydia, which is the most widespread STD in the U.S. Chlamydia is being screened for by 47 percent of the population, compared to 25 percent in 2000.

However, the agency warns that less than half of the at-risk population for STDs is getting tested for them.

It concludes that regular testing, combined with treatment options, is the best tool for fighting sexual infection. Those who believe they have an STD may consider looking into online testing services.

The CDC estimates that 19 million new STD infections occur each year in the U.S.