Impact of Substance Use on Sexually Transmitted Infections

Course overview

Substance use disorders are associated with increased risks and prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), hepatitis, and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Untreated substance use disorders can delay identification and treatment of STIs, including HIV and hepatitis, and increase the risk of transmission to others. Substance use can reduce the efficacy of HIV and other STI treatments and can increase the progression of HIV. This course will show you the scope of the problem and present you with evidence-based tools to identify and address substance misuse in the populations you serve. You will learn about available treatments for HIV, hepatitis, and other STIs as well as how alcohol and other drug use can interfere with treatment adherence and efficacy.