Planned Parenthood, MTV, Kaiser Family Foundation Join to Fight STDs

Planned Parenthood is participating in a national campaign with MTV and the Kaiser Family Foundation to increase the testing and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases among people 25 and under. The campaign, dubbed "GYT: Get Yourself Tested," will be running throughout the month of April, National STD Awareness Month.

(Pictured Left: IL Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky)

View the campaign website at: http://www.gyt09.org/

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 19 million new STD infections occur every year in the U.S. and almost half are among people aged 15-24. The two most commonly reported STDs in this country are chlamydia and gonorrhea, both of which can result in infertility if left untreated.

On the bright side, we know that this is a preventable public health problem. Planned Parenthood has the largest network of sexual health and peer educators who annually provide 1.2 million teens, young people and parents with the knowledge and tools they need to stay healthy and safe. The GYT campaign is a great opportunity to continue spreading the word to young people.

Planned Parenthood of Illinois will be engaging in activities for the GYT campaign throughout the month. To get involved, contact a volunteer coordinator at volunteer@ppil.org or visit the GYT website HERE for more information. To find a Planned Parenthood health center near you, click HERE.


Technorati tags: Planned Parenthood of Illinois, STD, chlamydia, gonorrhea, GYT