62318 Collision of the STD/HIV Epidemics

Course overview

Discussion of common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), where to look for treatment information, current STD trends in men who have sex with men (MSM), current recommendations for testing people living with HIV for STDs, and how HIV prevention techniques such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) may affect the occurrence of STDs in the HIV population. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common in the U.S., with 50% of all sexually active individuals contracting an STD by the age of 25. Individuals who have contracted an STD, such as syphilis, gonorrhea, or herpes, are at an increased risk for contracting HIV, and vice versa. Untreated STDs have multiple negative health effects, along with concern for high risk for future HIV infection in these individuals. While STDs can be transmitted and contracted by both men and women, sexually active bisexual, gay, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) are especially susceptible if they practice anal sex. Appropriate screening and testing for STDs in this population is key for initiation of treatment or prevention measures. This program discusses the correlation between HIV and STDs, particularly in MSM, including screening and testing guidelines, as well as prevention techniques.