Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health concern in the United States in terms of both health and economics. Although a tremendous amount of resources have been committed toward the control of these diseases, there continues to be a dramatic increase in their incidence and prevalence, particularly among young adults between 15 and 24 years of age. Because STIs are preventable, emergency department (ED) care providers must take an active role in the prevention and treatment of individuals with STIs. The ED clinician must also be astutely aware of the possibility of STIs in victims of pediatric sexual abuse. Because the ED may be the primary place for diagnosis and treatment of an STI, clinicians play critical role in the multidisciplinary, collaborative approach toward our nation's goal to control this overwhelming problem.