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Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are on the rise - especially among young people - even though simple tests and effective treatment are available. During April, National STD Month, Southwest Health District and Turner Job Corps are teaming up to help combat the spread of disease by offering a week of activities and educational events.

"An estimated 19 million new sexually transmitted infections occur in the United States each year. Almost half are among young people ages 15 to 24," said Jacqueline Jenkins, the epidemiologist for Southwest Health District. "There are many actions people can take to protect themselves from STDs. That’s the message we are giving during STD Awareness Month."

"We are planning weeklong events for our students to educate them and to promote a healthier lifestyle," said Registered nurse Ophelia Thomas, the wellness coordinator for Turner Job Corps.

Activities begin Monday, April 20, with the distribution of green ribbons in observance of STD Awareness Month, Thomas said. Turner Job Corps will also announce winners of a poster contest, a bulletin board contest and an essay contest on the theme "Be Aware! Be Informed! Get Tested! Protect Yourself!" The day’s activities conclude with a 9 p.m. candlelight vigil, she said.

"Tuesday we will hold "Open Microphone Night’ at 5:30 p.m.," Thomas continued. "The winning essay will be read, and poems and songs concerning STDs will be shared."

Experts on sexually-transmitted diseases from the Southwest Health District staff will conduct girls-only and boys-only presentations on Wednesday at the Job Corps. On Friday, the students will be encouraged to participate in a 1.5 walk for awareness at 4 p.m., Thomas said.

"Throughout the month, Public Health will be emphasizing correct and consistent use of condoms; responsible sexual behavior and reduction of number of sex partners; screening; and immunizations," said Jenkins.

Many STDs have no symptoms, and people with them may not realize they are infected, she said. "That’s why it is especially important for those at risk to get tested. Even though tests and treatment are readily available, nearly 1.5 million cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea were reported in 2007. Cases of syphilis are increasing, even though it is a treatable disease that had almost been in the 1990s."

Those bearing the heaviest burden of sexually transmitted disease are youths, women, men who have sex with men and racial and ethnic minorities, added Southwest Health District Health Director Dr. Jacqueline Grant.  "African Americans represent 12 percent of the U.S. population, but account for approximately 70 percent of gonorrhea cases and nearly half the cases of chlamydia and syphilis," said Grant.  "These disparities may be linked to the disparities in HIV infection among African Americans."

County health departments offer STD testing, counseling and other services in private, confidential settings, said Grant.  For more information, contact your local county health department or go online to www.southwestgeorgiapublichealth.org