Love in the Ruins: Sexual Behavior and Sexually Transmitted Infection During Times of War, Conflict and Upheaval

APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Thomas A. Peterman, MD, MSC, Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Mailstop E-02, Atlanta, GA 30333, 404-639-6102, tpeterman@cdc.gov

Traditionally, conflict-associated diseases have killed more people than combat. Epidemics of sexually transmitted diseases have often followed military campaigns, and major population disruptions. Even events as minor as a power failure have increased pregnancies, and controlled urban renewal has been blamed for outbreaks of STI--but evidence is difficult to obtain. Many STI are asymptomatic and unrecognized in normal circumstances, and undoubtedly more likely go unrecorded when the control program is also in a state of upheaval. Several groups have recommended strategies for dealing with STI in times of upheaval. These strategies are best considered before disaster strikes.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

Understand the history of STD during times of upheaval and the implications for STI control programs.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation

Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections During an Era of Declining Funds and Crumbling Public Health Infrastructure: Challenges and Opportunities

The 134th Annual Meeting & Exposition (November 4-8, 2006) of APHA