High rate of STDs among Natives cause for alarm

MONDAY, JULY 14, 2003

Sexually transmitted diseases are diagnosed among Native Americans in South Dakota at a rate higher than the rest of the population, according to the South Dakota Department of Health.

Of the cases diagnosed in 2002, nearly half of STDs were among Natives, a recent report said. Native Americans are only 8.3 percent of the state population.

Health officials are worried that the high rates increase the potential for a a deadly disease like HIV/AIDS t enter the Indian population. They advocate for education, screening and changes in life behaviors.

Get the Story:
Officials fear high American Indian STD rates leave door open for HIV (The Rapid City Journal 7/14)

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