Identified Health Risk of Increasing STD Rates in Cicero, IL

If you have had any type of sex, you're at risk for catching a STD!

Rates of chlamydia and gonorrhea have been increasing in Cicero, IL over the past several years, especially in those from the ages of 15-19 and 20-24, who have the highest rates of these sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) (Illinois Department of Public Health [IDPH], 2016). Men and women, both heterosexual and homosexual, are at risk for contracting these STDs.

Both of these STDs can be transmitted by having unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex. The only absolute way to prevent the risk of contracting one or both of these STDs is to not have oral, vaginal, or anal sex, however, there are also ways to significantly reduce the chances of contracting one of these STDs. Using condoms (a new condom right away) for every sexual encounter helps to greatly reduce the chances of contracting STDs. 

It is also important if you are sexually active to have regular screenings and testing for STDs to look for any potential STD so that long term complications can be avoided. While both chlamydia and gonorrhea can be be treated with medication, since both of these STDs usually present with no symptoms, it is important to take special care in having safe sex and regular screenings so that both can be completely avoided and if present, quickly treated.