Syphilis Testing near me in Kansas City, Kansas

Who should get tested for syphilis?

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can have serious health consequences if left untreated. According to the CDC, anyone who is sexually active should consider getting tested for syphilis, especially if they have multiple partners, are a man who has sex with men, or are pregnant. It's also recommended for those who have been diagnosed with another STI, as having one STI can increase the risk of contracting another.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial because it's often asymptomatic in its early stages, meaning you might not know you have it. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to serious health problems, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. It can also increase the risk of HIV transmission. Early detection through testing allows for prompt treatment, which can effectively cure the infection and prevent long-term complications.

Syphilis testing options in Kansas City, KS:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics provide convenient, same-day testing for syphilis. In Kansas City, you can book an appointment at one of the 30 nearby locations through Solv’s website and mobile app. One such location is NextCare Urgent Care on N Ambassador Dr in Kansas City, MO, which has a high customer rating.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also offer syphilis testing. If you have a regular doctor, they can provide testing during a routine check-up or you can schedule a separate appointment.

Free STD testing and community health centers

For those without insurance or with limited income, free STD testing is available at community health centers in and around Kansas City. These centers provide confidential testing and treatment services.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for syphilis are another option. These kits can be ordered online and used in the privacy of your own home. After collecting a sample, you send it back to a lab for testing and receive your results electronically.

Prevalence of syphilis in Kansas City

Kansas City, located in Jackson County, has seen a rise in syphilis cases in recent years, mirroring a national trend. According to the CDC, the rate of syphilis in Kansas City is higher than in nearby counties such as Johnson County and Warren County. Factors contributing to this increase could include a lack of awareness about the disease and its symptoms, decreased condom use, and an increase in risky sexual behaviors.

Risk factors related to syphilis in Kansas City

Risk factors for syphilis in Kansas City include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and drug use. Men who have sex with men are particularly at risk. Additionally, those who have been previously diagnosed with another STI are also at a higher risk.

Other STDs in Kansas City

In addition to syphilis, other common STDs in Kansas City include gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis. Like syphilis, these infections can often be asymptomatic and can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for anyone who is sexually active, especially those with multiple partners or who engage in risky behaviors.