Syphilis Testing near me in Etowah, Tennessee

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but it is particularly prevalent among men who have sex with men, and individuals with HIV. Those who have had syphilis before, have multiple sexual partners, or are pregnant should also consider getting tested. People living in areas with a high prevalence of syphilis, such as Etowah, TN, are also at an increased risk.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial as it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Syphilis can also increase the risk of getting or transmitting HIV. Moreover, pregnant women with syphilis can pass the disease to their babies, leading to stillbirth or infant death. Testing is simple and can help ensure early detection and treatment.

Syphilis testing options in Etowah, TN:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics, such as AFC Urgent Care in Athens, TN, provide quick and convenient syphilis testing. You can book same-day and next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are also a good option for syphilis testing. They can provide a comprehensive sexual health check and discuss any concerns you may have.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers in and around Etowah offer free or low-cost STD testing. These centers provide confidential testing and counseling services.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another convenient option. These kits can be ordered online, used in the privacy of your own home, and then sent to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of syphilis in Etowah

Syphilis rates in Etowah, located in McMinn County, have been on the rise, mirroring national trends. The CDC reports that syphilis rates have increased across all regions of the country, and Etowah is no exception. It's important to note that syphilis rates can vary between nearby cities and counties, so individuals in Etowah should not only compare their risk to national averages but also to the rates in nearby areas like Englewood, Athens, Riceville, Benton, and Calhoun.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Etowah

Risk factors for syphilis in Etowah include unprotected sex, having multiple sexual partners, and having a sexual partner who has tested positive for syphilis. Other factors contributing to the rise of syphilis in Etowah could include lack of awareness about the disease and inadequate access to healthcare services.

Other STDs in Etowah

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Etowah. Like syphilis, these diseases can have serious health consequences if left untreated, further emphasizing the importance of regular testing.