STIs are a public health crisis.

The U.S. has some of the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the industrialized world, and the rates continue to rise. STIs, if left untreated, can cause infertility, birth defects, cervical cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, and an increased risk of acquiring HIV. Young people, newborns, and gay and bisexual men are bearing the brunt of the crisis, and cases of syphilis in newborns (congenital syphilis) are on the rise, increasing 203% in the past five years, and deaths from congenital syphilis increasing 175% in the same period.

How our nation’s STD programs protect against STIs

The CDC funds STI prevention and control activities in all fifty states, three territories, and six major cities:

• Contact Tracing
  STD programs are responsible for tracking and monitoring trends in STI cases throughout the states. Part of this work includes identifying and contacting persons and their partners who test positive for STIs to ensure they receive proper treatment. Years of underfunding has resulted in many people who need these services falling through the cracks.
• Treat
  In the jurisdictions that are able to offer direct services, STD programs at health departments are a reliable, high-quality source for free and accessible STI screening and testing. No one is turned away due to their ability to pay. Identifying and treating STIs stops the infection at its source and is the primary way that health departments prevent the spread of these diseases.
• Protect
  Health department staff are highly trained to ensure that all cases of STIs are reported and responded to quickly to break the chain of infection. Identifying, interviewing, and treating STI cases protect the health of all citizens.

NCSD’s role in combating STIs

• Capacity Building
  NCSD builds the capacity of our members by providing technical assistance and training, developing and sharing informational resources, and facilitating peer learning and support.
• Policy and Advocacy
  NCSD educates policy makers, public health professionals, organizational allies and the general public about why STIs are a public health priority and what is needed to address these infections.
• National Leadership and Strategic Communications
  NCSD serves as and amplifies the voice of our members. We create a sense of urgency around the issue of STIs and communicate how the issue fits into the broader sexual health landscape.
• Promoting Health Equity
  NCSD ensures that disproportionally affected communities—those at the heart of the U.S. STD epidemic—are the focus of STD programs and services and receive the most attention and support.

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