The NCSD study comes on the heels of new data released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showing persistent and staggeringly high rates of STDs, as well as a disproportionate burden of infections on youth, minorities, women and men who have sex with men (MSM). In 2008, more than 1.2 million chlamydia cases were reported in the United States which represents the largest number of disease cases ever reported for any condition. African Americans remain highly impacted by STDs, accounting for 71% of all gonorrhea cases, and 48% of all chlamydia cases. Syphilis increased 18% between 2007 and 2008, with 63% of all syphilis cases reported among men who have sex with men (MSM). The consequences of untreated STDs include infertility, pregnancy complications, cervical cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, birth defects and an increased risk of HIV transmission.

"Both the NCSD study and the new data released by the CDC underscore the immediate and real need for increased federal resources," said Suzanne Miller, Health Policy Manager for NCSD. While STD rates have consistently increased, funding has declined in recent years. Funding for the Division of STD Prevention at CDC has decreased by $6 million since Fiscal Year 2004. NCSD supports an increase of $299 million in FY 2010 for the Division of STD Prevention.

Ms. Miller continued, "As Congress works to finalize a comprehensive health reform package, the investments in prevention and public health must be robust, including rebuilding the public health infrastructure, addressing workforce capacity and working to eliminate health disparities."

SOURCE National Coalition of STD Directors