In the United States, there are a number of factors that may determine how at-risk one is for STDs – contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or disease (STD). These infections can change lives, making it important to understand how they are spread and the ways that Americans can keep themselves and their partners safe. One may be more or less at risk depending on where they live, what they do, who they are and their background, or who they love.
Some areas in the U.S. have a higher risk of STIs than others. Utah, Idaho, New Jersey, and Massachusetts have the lowest risk. Alaska, Louisiana, Georgia, and Minnesota have the highest. Southern regions and major metro areas see the most cases. Different STIs are also more common in certain regions. Chlamydia is most common in the Midwest. Gonorrhea is found mostly in the South. Syphilis is most common in the West, while HIV cases are highest on the East Coast.
Personal choices and behaviors greatly impact the risk of contracting an STI. Having unprotected sex or not using proper protection increases the chances. Research shows that per 10,000 sexual acts, the risk of contracting gonorrhea or syphilis ranges from 20% to 65%. Having multiple partners also raises the risk. Women with five or more partners are eight times more likely to have an STI. Dating apps add uncertainty to intimate encounters. While users are 1.8 times more likely to get screened, they are also 1.3 times more likely to test positive. Substance abuse has also been linked to higher STI rates. Both alcohol abuse and cocaine use has been positively linked to risky sexual behavior and positive STI diagnoses. Overall, one is more at risk if they are having unprotected sex with multiple partners who’s sexual history they know little about.
Ethnicity, income, age, and background can also be aspects of determining one’s risk for catching and spreading STDs. For example, black people are disproportionately more susceptible to contracting gonorrhea and syphilis than other groups. Additionally, those below the poverty line, younger people, and women are more likely to test positive for and report an STI. Overall however, one is most at risk for an STI if they are a young adult male between the ages of 15 and 24.
Sexual relationships vary based on the preferences and identities of those involved. This means different groups face different STD risks. Homosexual men are more likely to contract gonorrhea, while heterosexual men most often get nongonococcal urethritis. Homosexual women are at higher risk for bacterial vaginosis, while heterosexual women are more likely to contract syphilis. Overall, gay and bisexual cisgender men have the highest STI risk, with a 35% positivity rate. The type of sex also affects risk. Research shows anal intercourse is 10 times more likely to transmit HIV than vaginal intercourse.
There are several ways to reduce the risk of STIs. Testing, protection, vaccines, and abstinence all help lower the chances of infection. Those who are sexually active should know their risks and take steps to prevent the spread.