Latest News On Sexual Health

Latest KFF Health News Stories

An Underused Strategy For Surge In STDs: Treat Patients’ Partners Without A Doctor Visit

KFF Health News Original

For over a decade, federal health officials have recommended the practice, known as expedited partner therapy. It is allowed in most states, but many doctors don’t do it — either because of legal or ethical concerns, or because they are unaware of it.

PrEP Campaign Aims To Block HIV Infection And Save Lives In D.C.

KFF Health News Original

Washington, D.C., is trying to stop new cases of HIV in the district by making sure residents who might be at risk are taking PrEP, medicine that cuts the risk of contracting the virus by 92 percent.

Use Of HIV-Prevention Drug Grows, But Lags Among Non-Whites

KFF Health News Original

The pill, known as PrEP, can reduce the risk of contracting the virus that causes AIDS by 90 percent. Its use has expanded sharply in recent years — but primarily among a white demographic.

St. Kitts Launches Probe Of Herpes Vaccine Tests On U.S. Patients

KFF Health News Original

After a Kaiser Health News report on an offshore herpes vaccine trial that skirted FDA regulations, St. Kitts and Nevis officials claim they had no knowledge of the testing. An investigation is underway.

In Texas, Abstinence-Only Programs May Contribute To Teen Pregnancies

KFF Health News Original

Across the U.S., the number of teenagers having babies has hit a record low — it’s down to about 1 out of every 45 young women. That trend hasn’t extended to certain parts of Texas, however, where the teen birth rate is still nearly twice the national average.

Spreading The Word About HIV Prevention For African-American Women

KFF Health News Original

African-American women are more likely to be infected with HIV than other women. So the District of Columbia is launching an effort to inform them about PrEP, medication that can reduce their risk.