Abstract

Reducing STD Stigma and Promoting STD Testing Among Youth: Lessons Learned from the Adolescent Health Project

Marisa Rosen, MPH1, Melissa Tibbits, PhD, MS1 and Kerri Peterson2
(1)University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, (2)Sherwood Foundation, Omaha, NE

APHA 2016 Annual Meeting & Expo (Oct. 29 - Nov. 2, 2016)

background: In the United States, sexually transmitted disease (STD) rates remain high among youth aged 15-24 years old. In Omaha, Nebraska the rates of both chlamydia and gonorrhea in adolescents are among the highest in the state and nation. Stigma contributes to high STD rates by promoting silence about STDs, which limits awareness of STDs and utilization of STD services. Beginning in January 2015, the Women's Fund of Omaha's Adolescent Health Project launched a series of media campaigns focused on raising awareness about STDs, promoting conversations about STDs and encouraging youth to get tested. The purpose of this study is to examine the extent to which the first campaign, Anyone Can Get One, reached youth, raised awareness, and promoted conversations about STDs. methods: Data from three sources were analyzed: standard marketing metrics, Facebook Insights software, and 24 interviews with youth. results: Between January and August 2015, the campaign had over 18 million impressions, and of the Facebook users reached, 7% engaged with the campaign via likes, shares, and/or comments. Further, 63% of youth interviewed reported familiarity with the campaign and 78% reported having a positive perception of the campaign. Most, however, stated they had not heard others discussing the campaign. conclusion: These findings suggest that even when youth notice and like media campaigns, verbal discussions among youth about campaigns may not occur. Further research is needed to understand how STD media campaigns can better formulate messages to break the silence around STDs and reduce STD stigma.

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