Pace Raises Awareness for Sexually Transmitted Infections with Free Testing in April
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Awareness Month is recognized annually in April. Pace Community Action Agency is making public health a priority, and to help spread awareness, Health Connection is offering free STI testing all month long.
According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 5 individuals have a STI. This is 20% of our American population. Health Connection encourages you to talk to your provider, get STI tested, and get treatment if needed.
Health Connection staff are focused on helping individuals and the community to take control of their sexual health. Rebecca Skiver, Health Connection Supervisor and Physician Assistant, stated, “Sexually Transmitted Infection rates are at an all-time high. Often, STIs present without symptoms or are not recognized, so it is very important to get screened regularly. Knowing your STI status allows you to take care of yourself and your sexual partners and receive treatment if you need it.”
Most STIs are treatable! The only true way to be sure if you or your partner are STI-free is by getting tested. STI testing is quick, easy, and accessible.
5 Reasons Early Testing is Vital
- STIs are common. The CDC reports 20 million new cases every year.
- STIs often have no signs or symptoms.
- Untreated STIs can create complications that have long-term effects, potentially leading to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), scarring, inability to get pregnant, and cancer.
- Early testing can help reduce the risk of transmitting STIs to others by being diagnosed and treated.
- Most STIs are curable or treatable. Catching the issues early improves your health and well-being.
Our experts listen and speak to their patients, which can help counteract stigma and provide testing in a non-judgmental and compassionate environment. To schedule an appointment or talk to a healthcare provider, contact the Health Connection clinic closest to you, Bedford (812) 675-0247, Sullivan (812) 638-2998, Vincennes (812) 882-6069, Washington (812) 254-6936 and Terre Haute (812) 234-0707. To learn more about Pace, please visit our website at www.pacecaa.org/health-connection.
For more information about STI testing, contact Dr. Michelle Pitcher APRN, FNP-BC, NP-C at mpitcher@pacecaa.org
###
Pace Community Action Agency, Inc. is a private not-for-profit Community Action Agency established to provide support services to improve the community and encourage self-reliance. Services are provided without regard to race, age, color, religion, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, familial status, or status as a veteran.
We Educate, Empower, and Improve through organized steps at a personalized pace!
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn www.pacecaa.org