| Themes > Science > Life Sciences > General Biology > Physiology > The Reproductive System > Sexually Transmitted Diseases |
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) cause over $7 billion to be expended for treatment. STDs can affect the sex partners, fetus, and newborn infants. STDs are grouped into three categories. Category OneSTDs that produce inflammation of the urethra, epididymis, cervix, or oviducts. Gonorrhea and chlamydia are the most common STDs in this category. Both diseases can be treated and cured with antibiotics, once diagnosed. Category TwoSTDs that produce sores on the external genitals. Genital herpes is the most common disease in this class, affecting more than 25 million individuals in the US. Symptoms of herpes can be treated by antiviral drugs, but the infection cannot be cured. Syphilis is a bacterially caused infection, and can, if left untreated, cause serious symptoms and death. However, the disease is curable with antibiotics. Category ThreeThis class of STDs includes viral diseases that affect organ systems other than those of the reproductive system. AIDS and hepatitis B are in this category. Both can be spread by sexual contact or blood. Infectious individuals may appear symptom-free for years after infection. |
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