ABSTRACT
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) constitute a major health burden in the United
States, causing pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, infertility, chronic
pelvic pain, genital lesions, genital neoplasms, adverse pregnancy outcomes, immune
system dysfunction, liver disease, and even death. STDs disproportionately affect
adolescents and young adults. Of the estimated 15 million STDs that occur annually
each year in the United States, 4 million are among adolescents and 6 million among
young adults. The current epidemic is complicated by the high asymptomatic carrier
state associated with most STDs and the inadequate protection of condoms in preventing
transmission. Sexually active individuals, particularly adolescents, must be educated
on the ramifications of early onset of sexual activity and the health consequences
of multiple sexual partners.
KEYWORDS
Sexually transmitted diseases - condoms - consequences - review article