Syphilis Testing near me in Gresham, Oregon

Who should get tested for syphilis?

According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active can get syphilis, but it is particularly prevalent among men who have sex with men, individuals with multiple sexual partners, and those who engage in unprotected sex. Pregnant women should also be tested for syphilis, as it can be passed on to the unborn child, potentially leading to serious health complications.

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. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, which can prevent these complications and stop the spread of the disease to others. According to the CDC, syphilis is on the rise, making regular testing even more important, particularly for those in high-risk groups.

Syphilis testing options in Gresham, OR:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer convenient, same-day testing for syphilis. Legacy Health-GoHealth Urgent Care, located at 22262 NE Glisan St, Gresham, OR 97030, is one such facility where you can book same-day and next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also conduct syphilis tests. If you have a regular doctor, they can provide testing during a routine checkup or at a separate appointment.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers and free STD testing clinics are also available in Gresham for those without insurance or who cannot afford testing. These centers provide confidential testing and treatment options.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are another option. These kits can be purchased online or from a pharmacy, allowing for privacy and convenience. However, it's important to ensure the test is FDA-approved for accuracy.

Prevalence of syphilis in Gresham

While exact numbers for Gresham are not readily available, Multnomah County, where Gresham is located, has seen an increase in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring national trends. Comparatively, nearby counties such as Lincoln and Sherman have lower rates, while Pierce and Wasco counties have similar rates.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Gresham

Risk factors for syphilis in Gresham are similar to those nationwide. These include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and drug use. Men who have sex with men and individuals with HIV are also at a higher risk.

Other STDs in Gresham

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in Gresham. Like syphilis, these diseases can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, further emphasizing the importance of regular testing. Testing for these STDs is also available at the 32 locations in and around Gresham, including urgent care centers and medical laboratories.