STDs are diseases that are spread by having sex with someone who has an STD. You can get a sexually transmitted disease from any sexual activity. According to the American Social Health Organization, approximately 18.9 million new cases of STDs, not including HIV, occur each year in the U.S. More than half of all people will be infected with an STD in their lifetime. STDs are serious illnesses that require treatment. Some STDs, like AIDS, cannot be cured and are deadly. Because most STDs can be symptom free, do not assume that you or your partner are not infected just because you do not have any symptoms. STDs can be present for years before they become symptomatic, so the only way to know for sure if you or your partner has an STD is to get tested. Call to arrange an appointment 1-800-639-0456.