Conference teaches Memphis teens about STDs

 

All sexually active individuals should get themselves tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). However, residents of Tennessee should be especially diligent about visiting STD testing centers. According to a recent article published by WMC News, six out of every 100 people living in the state have some type of STD. Furthermore, that number may be even higher, since many individuals may be unaware that they have a sexual infection.

Despite these high rates, the news source reports that many parents in the area are not comfortable talking to their children about the dangers of STDs. In response to this, health agencies in Memphis recently teamed up to host a "411 on Sex" teen conference, where sexual healthcare professionals educated young people about STDs.

Shelby County, where the event took place, has one of the fastest growing STD rates in the country.

"We're going to talk to them in a real way on a real level that they can identify with about sexual behavior," said University of Tennessee Health Science Center Coordinator Pamela Houston, quoted by the news source. "For us to be right up there with the national average that's huge."

She added that many students feel intense pressure to have sex on prom night, which is why it's important to teach young people how to avoid getting taken advantage of. Hopefully, the conference encouraged students to visit STD testing centers in Memphis if they are worried that they may already have an infection.

The website for the Tennessee Department of Health features a helpful information sheet that explains how STDs develop. Many people may not realize that STDs can stay inactive for months or even years, and the Department of Health aims to educate individuals on this fact so they know that even if they do not exhibit any symptoms, they may still have an infection.