High rate of STI in Juveniles can patient teaching decrease reoccurance - Essay Example

High Rate of STI in Juveniles: Can Patient Teaching Decrease Reoccurence? of the of the High Rate of STI in Juveniles: Can Patient Teaching Decrease Reoccurence?
Identifying the Problem
Sexually transmitted infection (STI) has been a problem and a risk for the juvenile population of the USA since the last few decades. For those under age of 18 having unprotected sex especially with a number of partners increases the risk substantially, particularly where the partner’s sexual history is not known. Further, as the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender movement has gained momentum and acceptance in our communities- these groups have a high risk of not only getting but also transmitting the disease. The abused and homeless youth also face increased risks of contracting the disease from the street and the GLBT and African-American population have higher chances of getting syphilis, gonorrhea and other STIs than the rest of the US population. It has been estimated that as much as 71 percent of the black juvenile population had gonorrhea in 2008, while 21 percent of homeless youth were identified with STIs (CDC, 2009).
Description of the Proposed Change
To change the present scenario and educate these youth about the risks and prevalence of STI, it is proposed that not only should this problem be addressed in schools and town hall meetings- giving information about these diseases, risk factors and how to avoid contracting them- but also by starting free clinics where these STIs can be reported confidentially and cured through conventional means. STIs should be viewed as a social problem that affects certain populations more than others, but being aware of the risk factors and taking adequate precautions can prevent their occurrence and reoccurrence, rather than having to deal with their symptoms at a later stage.
Anticipated Benefits to the Future of the Healthcare Environment
The benefits to the healthcare environment would be profound. By educating not only the youth and adolescents but also part of the adult population that consist of their family members and friends though lectures and pamphlets, we can help decrease both the prevalence and reoccurrence of STIs in the local community. Taking our clinics to the streets to help homeless and runaway juveniles will also help reduce prevalence and reoccurrence and educate them in making better life choices. It is better not to have sex than risk contracting STIs due to unprotected sex, sharing needles and so forth.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2009). Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance, 2008. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; November 2009. Read More