Today, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS) released a report on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as part of a sustained effort to raise awareness of the STI epidemic in Minnesota. The report contextualizes the impact of STIs and HIV and explores solutions for addressing this critical health care need.
The Minnesota Department of Health released figures last month showing an alarming increase in HIV infections among young Minnesotans, with new HIV cases in the state increasing by 13 percent in 2009, marking a 17-year high.
In addition, the state has seen successive increases in the rates of STIs over the past several years. Last April’s 2008 STI report showed the highest level of infections ever, with over 17,000 cases reported.
STI rates are highest in the urban areas; however the rates of chlamydia and gonorrhea have increased the most in metro-area suburbs and Greater Minnesota.
“The persistent increase in STIs across Minnesota must be addressed and the public health community cannot do it alone. Minnesota policy makers must respond swiftly and strategically with evidence-based approaches that will effectively address this public health crisis. Doing so will result in a healthier Minnesota,” said PPMNS President and CEO Sarah Stoesz.
More than 94% of Planned Parenthood’s 64,000 patients are women, the majority of whom are young adults, and 19% of whom are from communities of color. This population - female patients aged 26 and younger - are at the greatest risk of acquiring an STI. Many STIs s can cause permanent damage if not treated early. For example, women infected with gonorrhea or chlamydia are at risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease. Long term complications may include infertility, chronic pain and ectopic pregnancy and a significantly increased risk of acquiring HIV.
The report calls on the State of Minnesota to enact a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to reducing the state’s rising STI rates, including HIV infection. These rising rates of infection are a significant health threat to Minnesotans. Planned Parenthood urges the State to take the following steps to strengthen its prevention efforts:
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- -Provide funding to address the unmet public health need for STI testing and treatment. There is currently no dedicated state funding for screening and treatment of chlamydia and gonorrhea infections.
-Require the Minnesota Department of Health to implement an HIV and STI public education campaign, complete an assessment of the necessary steps required to significantly reduce the state’s STI rates within five years and determine the total annual cost to the state's health care system of STIs, treated and untreated, occurring in adolescents and young adults.
-Provide for school-based, age-appropriate comprehensive sexuality education programming that would offer young people the information and means to protect themselves.
- -Provide funding to address the unmet public health need for STI testing and treatment. There is currently no dedicated state funding for screening and treatment of chlamydia and gonorrhea infections.
Planned Parenthood administers approximately 62,000 STI tests annually, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HPV. Planned Parenthood provides reproductive health education programming with a focus on reducing STIs and HIV and unintended pregnancies and provides sex education programs that empower communities to make healthy, responsible decisions about their reproductive health.
CLICK HERE DOWNLOAD THE REPORT
CONTACT: Kathi Di Nicola
651.755.9557
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