Study finds STD testing rates for HIV-positive men do not meet guidelines

Screening for gonorrhea and chlamydia among HIV-infected men has increased but still falls short of prescribed levels, according to a February study published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections.

Researchers with the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine found that clinical enrollment of HIV-positive men increased their STD testing rates more than four-fold, from four percent to 16.5 percent.

The rate of ever being tested also rose, from 34 to 49 percent.

The team stressed the importance of early and frequent STD testing for HIV-positive individuals, with particular emphasis on gonorrhea and chlamydia screening. Studies have shown that secondary STDs increase the risk of HIV transmission from those infected with the virus to their partners.

Individuals concerned about their sexual health but wary of the clinical environment often consider online STD testing services when looking for a viable alternative.

Every year, the U.S. sees 700,000 new cases of gonorrhea, according to the Mayo Clinic. The organization also estimates that 4 million Americans have chlamydia, many of them unknowingly.