Shelby County's Rising STD Crisis Among Youth

Shelby County is in the middle of a growing public health crisis, one that’s impacting teens and young adults the most. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) have surged among youth in Memphis and its surrounding areas. The rise is mostly evident among 15 to 19-year-olds, where HIV and syphilis cases have more than doubled since 2018.

HIV: HIV rates in Shelby County have increased by 36% since 2018, and among those aged 15-19, the increase is even more pronounced at 40%. (Tennessee Department of Health).

Syphilis: Syphilis rates have also seen a dramatic rise, with a more than 100% increase overall since 2018 and a 150% increase among 15-19 year olds. (Tennessee Department of Health).

Behind the data lies a deeper problem: a large population of Shelby County either lives in poverty or does not have access to proper healthcare. As a result, prevention efforts aren’t adequately reaching the youth in terms of how they learn and socialize. In order to reverse this trend, we need to start by informing schools, neighborhoods, and local communities about preventative methods and future plans. 

For many teenagers, school is the only public outlet. It’s the only place where they learn about necessary life skills; however, there is a large void in talking about health and wellness, specifically sexual health. 

Tennessee’s state policies mandate abstinence-based education, often mitigating critical information about the basic science of STDs and what they are. Given that the rates of infection in Shelby County are higher than the national average and are rapidly rising, basic education is crucial, and the lack thereof is failing our society. 

A comprehensive curriculum must be mandated, with compulsory health and wellness classes.  Society has stigmatized sexual health and treated it as a taboo, yet it is an important part of well-being. Teaching it in schools empowers students with knowledge, promotes healthy relationships, and helps them protect their bodies. 

School education is just one piece of the puzzle. The community at large must step in to surround youth with resources and a voice. This could start with something as simple as better access to hygiene products. Especially in areas high in poverty, we can increase the distribution of such products in public places such as libraries, gyms, or community centers. 

Another way to increase community involvement is by encouraging healthcare professionals to share their insights into public health problems prevalent in the community. Whether through a social media campaign, a simple post, or hosting a talk , without knowledge,it becomes nearly impossible for youth to make informed decisions about their health and futures. 

By increasing access to resources and implementing comprehensive education, we can begin to address the STD crisis in Shelby County at its root. The responsibility does not rest solely on schools or healthcare workers; it belongs to all of us. Parents, educators, and the community as a whole must work together to create awareness, compassion, and empowerment. Only then can we begin to reverse the trends we’re witnessing and ensure a healthier future for the next generation.