Breaking the Stigma: STIs and Public Health Challenges
Episode Overview
Using 'infection' instead of 'disease' helps reduce stigma. STI rates are rising among older adults. Substance use disorders increase STI risks. Healthcare providers need to create safe spaces for discussions. Regular screenings are crucial for early detection.
Sex has no expiration date.
The Addiction Medicine Podcast kicks off its fourth season with an eye-opening discussion on sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In this episode, Dr. Shannon Dowler and Dr. Amy Marietta join host Paulin Williamson to shed light on the importance of using the term 'infection' over 'disease' to reduce stigma and encourage testing. They dive into current trends, health inequities, and the crucial role healthcare providers play in STI care. Dr.
Dowler, a board-certified family physician, brings her expertise in public health and policy to the table, discussing how terms and language can shape public perception and behaviour. She highlights the concerning rise in STI rates among older adults and the impact of the pandemic on STI testing and treatment. Meanwhile, Dr. Marietta, who specialises in addiction medicine and maternal health, discusses the intersection of substance use disorders and STI risks, particularly among pregnant and parenting individuals.
The episode also tackles the challenges faced by healthcare providers in addressing STIs, from inadequate staffing to the need for better patient-provider communication. Both doctors emphasise the importance of creating a non-judgmental environment where patients feel safe discussing their sexual health. Why should you tune in? This episode is packed with valuable insights that not only inform but also challenge you to think about how language, access to care, and cultural trends impact STI prevention and treatment.
Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone interested in public health, this conversation is both enlightening and essential.