Health awareness event expected to lower STD transmission in gay community

Men who have sex with men are among the groups who are the most at risk for contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). As a result, public health authorities across the U.S. are organizing special educational and preventative efforts geared towards that community.

In New Mexico, the state Department of Health is planning to hold a health fair for gay men on August 28, and officials are hoping the event will become annual, according to New Mexico Business Journal.

"While HIV and STDs stay on the forefront of gay men's health, it's important we look at overall health as well," said Ken Mangano, the event's coordinator, quoted by the news provider.

He added that "we strive to be an important ally and a valuable resource to the gay community."

In that vein, the fair will not only cover STD screenings - which are essential to avoiding transmission - but also hepatitis A and B vaccinations. Experts will also address health topics such as cancer and depression.

The CDC estimates that of the approximately 56,300 new HIV infections reported in 2006 more than half (53 percent) were diagnosed in gay and bisexual men.