What Are the Facts About Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)?
STDs are much more common than most people realize. Because so many are undiagnosed, experts can only estimate that there are millions of new STD infections among Americans each year in the U.S. STD Data There are at least 25 different STDs. STDs are the most common infectious diseases in the US. 19 million Americans get a new STD infection each year.34 About 9.1 million teens and young adults (aged 15-24) got an STD in 2000.35 Most teens do not think they are at risk of an STD.36 At least 25 diseases are shared through sexual contact, and many of these diseases may begin with mild or no symptoms. The rates of some STDs are highest among teens.37 Unless tested, many people do not know they are infected until the infection may have caused permanent, lifelong damage. They may have also unknowingly given the infection to their sexual partners. STD Facts * You can not look at someone and tell if they are infected. * STDs can be transmitted through oral, anal, or vaginal sex. * Some STDs ca
