Rising numbers of STD cases may be a positive sign

In 2010, many U.S. counties reported having more residents with new cases of chlamydia, the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the nation. Some public health officials said they believe that the higher numbers mean that more people are being tested and treated for the infections.

One New York newspaper, the Glen Falls Post-Star, reported that the number of chlamydia cases in Washington County rose 42 percent from 2009 to 2010.

"It's actually a good thing that cases are being seen and detected early on, because it prevents a lot of health issues later in life," Patricia Hunt, director of the Washington County Public Health and Patient Services told the news source.

Although chlamydia may not cause any outward symptoms in people who are infected, the disease can damage a woman's reproductive organs and cause infertility.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 2.2 million people between the ages of 14 and 39 are living with the STD.

Most people with chlamydia are not aware of their infections and do not seek testing, but diagnosed individuals can be treated and cured with antibiotics.

Those who would like to be screened for STDs may consider using online testing services.