Describe sexually transmitted diseases and mention the ways to prevent them.
1. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a group of communicable diseases that are transmitted predominantly by sexual contact and caused by a wide range of bacterial, viral, protozoan and fungal agents and ectoparasites.
2. There are more than 50 diseases identified as sexually transmitted. Some of these diseases produce only minor symptoms, others can be fatal.
The diseases can be divided into two categories:
3. Those that are curable. For example- syphilis, gonorrhoea.
4. Those that are non – curable. For example- AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).
5. Prevention and Control of STDs: Promotion of safer sexual practices by the use of condoms during casual or commercial sex.