STD testing guidelines have been updated for teenagers; the American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends that sexually active teens have an HIV test as part of their routine check-up.
Previously, HIV testing was only stressed for adults. But new STD testing guidelines accurately reflect what we already know, but don’t necessarily talk about: teens have sex. In fact, 60% of teens are sexually active by the time they reach high school. And by having sex, teens are at risk for STDs, including HIV.
In the U.S., HIV affects 55,000 young adults, ages 13 to 24, and of those infected, only half are aware of their status. Early diagnosis—achieved through routine HIV and STD testing—allows for treatment to take place and helps prevent the virus from progressing to AIDS. Also, HIV diagnosis is the best way to halt transmission.
Let’s face it—teens are going to have sex, so they should be encouraged to do it safely. That means getting them in the habit of testing for STDs and HIV early. Given the potential of HIV to be a life-threatening disease, sexually active teens should certainly get an HIV test yearly—in addition to a full battery of STD testing.
