A New Tool for Treating STIs and Preventing HIV

Annual surveillance data published last month in the 2012 STD Surveillance Report show that sexually transmitted infections (STIs) threaten the health and well-being of millions of people in the United States. However, each of the 20 million new cases of STIs that occur annually in the United States is potentially preventable. One of the many prevention strategies that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) uses is recommending the most effective STI treatments and ensuring that the information gets into the hands of healthcare providers.

CDC’s STD Treatment Guidelines are updated every four years to reflect changes in testing and treatment of STIs for specific populations. The Guidelines are available on the web, in wall chart and pocket guide formats, and in an eBook. Now, they also are available through a new mobile application, giving clinicians access to STI treatment information on their mobile devices just about anywhere. Having the most up-to-date treatment guidelines available in multiple formats translates to better access, better care, and, ultimately, better health.Having an untreated STI increases the risk of HIV transmission and acquisition. This is especially true of ulcerative STIs such as genital herpes, syphilis, and chancroid. Because of this, detection and treatment of STIs is a part of HIV prevention. The STD Tx Guide app is one of the many tactics used to ensure easy access to and usability of the STD Treatment Guidelines. It is free and available for Apple and Android smartphones and tablets.

In addition to the recommended treatment regimens, the app also provides diagnostic information and the helpful booklet "A Guide to Taking a Sexual History."I encourage health care providers to download the app from the iTunesExit Disclaimer and Google PlayExit Disclaimer stores or learn more by visiting the STD Tx Guide webpage.