Texas Counties Report Alarming Rates of Sexually Transmitted Infections

Recent findings indicate a troubling increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) across Texas, with certain counties exhibiting rates that surpass national averages. According to a new report from Invigor Medical, utilizing data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), specific areas in Texas are highlighted as having some of the highest rates of STIs in the United States.

Overall, Texas ranks among the top states for newly reported STIs. Notably, Dallas County has emerged as a significant concern, reporting an STI rate that places it seventh among large U.S. counties. The report cites that Dallas County has an alarming rate of 1,314.5 cases per 100,000 residents. Other major metropolitan areas in Texas are also highlighted, with Travis County ranking fourteenth at 1,160.3 cases per 100,000, and Harris County coming in seventeenth with 1,041.4 cases per 100,000. These counties are characterized not only by their dense populations but also by pronounced inequalities in income, health insurance coverage, and access to medical services.

The report reveals that chlamydia and gonorrhea are the predominant STIs reported in these counties, while rates of HIV and syphilis, although lower, are on the rise, particularly in urban settings. Young adults aged 15 to 29 represent a significant portion of new infections across these regions.

Specific statistics from the counties reveal the extent of the issue:

• Dallas County: 20,405 cases of chlamydia, 9,362 cases of gonorrhea, 3,483 cases of syphilis, and 831 cases of HIV.
• Travis County: 9,100 cases of chlamydia, 4,644 cases of gonorrhea, 1,501 cases of syphilis, and 209 cases of HIV.
• Harris County: 31,014 cases of chlamydia, 11,631 cases of gonorrhea, 6,094 cases of syphilis, and 1,321 cases of HIV.

The surge in STI rates can be attributed to several interrelated factors, according to health experts. Limited access to affordable healthcare and routine testing, particularly in underserved communities, plays a significant role. Additionally, inconsistent and often underfunded sex education programs in schools contribute to the problem. Many young adults lack a primary care provider, further exacerbating the situation.

Stigma and misinformation surrounding STIs continue to hinder individuals from seeking necessary medical assistance, leading to delayed diagnoses and increased transmission rates. Furthermore, racial and economic disparities particularly impact Black and Latino communities, complicating efforts to control the spread of infections.

Health officials stress the importance of early testing for STIs as a critical measure for individual and public health. Accessible resources are available for those who may have been exposed to STIs:

• Texas Health and Human Services: An online tool to locate free or low-cost STD testing facilities.
• Dallas County Health and Human Services: Offers testing, treatment, and educational programs for STIs.
• Austin Public Health: Provides information on clinics and services for STI testing and treatment.
• Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas: Delivers confidential testing, treatment, and preventive services such as PrEP.

A previous report identified eight Texas cities among the top 100 in the U.S. with the highest STD rates, highlighting the pressing need for targeted public health interventions and education to address this growing crisis.