September is Sexual Health Awareness Month, and the Village of Park Forest is partnering with the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) to raise awareness about the importance of sexual health and well-being.
Throughout the month, CCDPH has organized a variety of activities for the public, healthcare providers, and community partners. These include virtual webinars, in-person events, toolkits, and social media outreach. The goal, according to officials, is to promote safer sex practices, foster healthy relationships, and reduce the stigma often associated with discussions about sexual health.
“Sexual health impacts everyone, and it’s crucial that people have access to resources and education without feelings of shame or fear,” said Park Forest Recreation Manager Adina McCollough. “We want residents to understand that these conversations are about protecting health, building stronger relationships, and taking proactive steps to prevent serious, long-term issues.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five Americans has a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Nearly 20 million new STI cases occur in the U.S. each year, with half of those affecting people between the ages of 15 and 24. In Cook County, trends reflect national data: cases of congenital syphilis more than doubled from 2020 to 2021 and have remained high since then.
“STIs are prevalent, but the good news is that they are both preventable and treatable,” said Chief Operating Officer Dr. Kiran Joshi of CCDPH. “This month provides an opportunity to think about the steps we can all take to improve our sexual health and well-being.”
Health officials stress that most STIs present no symptoms, making regular testing and treatment essential. Without intervention, infections can lead to infertility, complications during pregnancy, chronic pain, certain cancers, and even life-threatening conditions.
McCollough explained the importance of providing access to information and breaking down barriers to care as key steps in supporting the residents of Park Forest.
“By connecting people to accurate information and resources, we can reduce stigma and promote healthier choices,” she stated. “We want residents to feel empowered to take control of their health and to have open, honest conversations with healthcare providers and loved ones.”
For more information on Sexual Health Awareness Month events and resources, please visit cookcountypublichealth.org.