Raising Awareness: Understanding STI Statistics and Their Impact
13%. The amount of US Americans, per a 2019 @kaiserfamilyfoundation poll, that are aware that over 50% will get an STI during their lifetime.
I’ve shared this statistic before, but in preparation of what I plan to share in coming weeks, and amidst similar attitudes throughout the pandemic, I think it’s important to reiterate how close to home this hits, beyond STI stigma.
We’re not immune, even if we do everything “right.” Wherever that’s wearing a mask, or using barrier methods. Even if we are regularly screened and tested, even if we communicate with our partners.
13% of the population is prepared that they, or someone they know, is likely to test positive for an STI one day. But what about the other 87%?
The majority of the US is under the impression of immunity and invincibility (see two posts back for more on this). The majority of the US is unprepared and vulnerable to the effects of stigma.
This same majority, those who are unprepared and ill-equipped with knowledge around navigating STIs, is also part of a body of people who doubt the importance of this work, the necessity of this work, and the mental health resources and support networks that support those who are diagnosed.
This work and this page support the invisible and the invincible.