MANAGING SEXUALLY-TRANSMITTED DISEASES IN ADOLESCENTS

Control of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in adolescents is a pr imary responsibility of health care providers. Using the tools of hist ory and physical examination, and drawing on the awareness of differen t stages of adolescent development, health care providers can define a t-risk for STDs. This article discusses screening practices, disease c ontrol through reporting and preventive counseling, and treatment guid elines for common STD syndromes.