Sexually transmitted diseases: current and emerging concerns

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are epidemic today, with the highest prevalence being among adolescents and young adults. If any decrease in incidence is to occur, nurses must make a determined effort to identify at-risk individuals and groups and empower them through teaching and counseling about strategies of primary and secondary prevention. Current and emerging concerns that make prevention of STDs difficult include such problems as the huge reservoir of infected individuals with no symptoms, the synergy between STDs and human immunodeficiency virus infections, and the particular vulnerability of women to STDs based on their biology. A holistic approach to care that is sensitive to the age, race, culture, and core group characteristics is essential for effective prevention efforts.