STDs and Seniors

As the U.S. population continues to age, more and more older Americans are sexually active. While this is generally good news, it can lead to health issues for some people. For instance, studies show that sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B, trichomoniasis, and chlamydia are on the rise among seniors.

With regard to the reasons behind this phenomenon, experts cite several possibilities:

• Attitude – People who are currently 60 and older came of age before the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was prevalent. Additionally, antibiotics were readily available to cure certain STDs, such as gonorrhea and syphilis, which were previously considered to be very serious and even life-threatening. This, coupled with the advent of the birth control pill in the 1960s, may have contributed to a more relaxed view toward sex among this generation relative to that of its predecessors. Now, after losing a long-term partner to death or divorce, some of these people may retain the same carefree attitude when engaging in sexual activity with a new partner, even though the landscape has changed considerably since they first began dating.
• Lack of screening – During a Medicare annual wellness visit, a physician will usually assess a patient’s height, weight, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, mental state, and cognitive function – but not necessarily his or her sexual behavior. Plus, testing for certain health issues that are common in older patients, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, often take precedence over STD testing during a quick office visit. Without proper screening, STDs are much more likely to go undetected – and untreated.
• New medications – Drugs are now available to treat sexual dysfunction in both men and women, which may lead to an increase in sexual activity among older adults. This increase may correspond to a rise in the transmission of STDs, especially in a group that is not targeted with effective safe-sex messaging.

With all of that said, the rates of STDs among older adults are still relatively low. The key to reducing them even further is education. Effective communication – both between sexual partners and between patients and health care providers – is critical to preventing the transmission of STDs, and this holds true not just for seniors, but for people of all ages.

If you have questions or would like to be tested for an STD, come to South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL. Our physicians also treat many STDs or, if necessary, we can refer you to a local specialist for further evaluation and care.