Napoleon Bonaparte and Franz Schubert died from arsenic and mercury poisoning, because in the 19th century these toxins were used to treat syphilis. In the 20th century, Al Capone succumbed to the same sexually transmitted infection. Today in North America, more than 20 million new STIs are reported annually — half in people ages 15 to 24, and many in people over 65. The good news: At any age, sex can be fun, as long as you're knowledgeable about these infections and protect yourself.

STIs caused by viruses include hepatitis B, herpes, HIV, and human papilloma. Bacterial STIs are chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. A parasite causes trichomoniasis. Fortunately, antibiotics can treat bacterial and parasitic infections (although some strains are becoming antibiotic-resistant!). Viral STIs are difficult to cure; you usually just manage symptoms.

Left unchecked, STIs (also referred to as STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases) can cause infertility, cancer, immune system damage, or organ failure. The smart move is to avoid getting one. But, if you do, treat it immediately.

Prevention: Abstinence works; without sex, no STIs. (There's no risk from toilet seats.) Latex condoms help block out HIV and other infections but don't protect against herpes or HPV. The HPV vaccine prevents that infection.

Treatment: Yearly pelvic exams (for women) can identify infections. If you're diagnosed (men and women), take your medication as prescribed. Many OTC "meds" falsely claim to cure or prevent STIs. Only abstinence, condoms, and the HPV vaccine help prevent STIs, and only prescription meds cure or control herpes, chlamydia, HPV, and HIV infections, and other STIs.


© 2012 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.