Sexuality and health challenges: responding to a public health imperative.(Statistical Data Included)

The situation of sexual health and sexual behavior in the United States presents a challenge. As we are able to better measure STDs (including HIV) in the population, and as broad surveys show the extent of sexual dysfunctions and sexual abuse, it is apparent that we are presented with a challenge. If we do not address this challenge, we may be presented with a crisis in the future. Part of the challenge is the relative silence surrounding sexual issues in the community. Where sexuality is discussed, it is largely by the entertainment industry, through scandal reported in the media, and by commercial sources. What has been missing is widespread debate in the community and among health professionals which determines what the community values and concerns are, and how sexual health and promotion of responsible sexual behaviors are to be addressed. It is clear that the dangers of not discussing sexual health and responsible sexual behaviors now strongly outweigh any possible advantages of silence.

What are the sexual health issues which challenge us at the start of the new millennium? These include the prevalence of STDs and HIV, infertility and cancer resulting from STD infections in women, the rate of sexual dysfunctions in the population, sexual abuse and discrimination on the basis of sexuality, and the level of unwanted pregnancy.

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES

STDs are prevalent in U.S. society and their levels are alarming. Five of the top 10 most commonly reported diseases in the U.S. are STDs. Rates of curable STDs in the U.S. in 1995 were the highest in the developed world and higher than in some developing regions (Eng & Butler, 1997).

Chlamydia is the most commonly reported infectious disease in the United States. The reported rate for women in 1998 was…