CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – A new study shows that Montgomery County has the highest rate of sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the state of Tennessee.

The study, which pulls data from counties nationwide, was conducted by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation in conjunction with the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute.

The study also shows some positive health rankings. Montgomery County was ranked 9th out of 95 counties for health outcomes and 17th for quality of life.

To determine the STD rates, the study focused on newly diagnosed chlamydia cases per 100,000 population. In Montgomery County, the data shows that 1,656 new cases were reported.

The findings are similar to a report released in 2016 regarding the STD rate. At that time, Dr. Carolyn Wester, Medical Director of HIV, STD and Viral Hepatitis for the Tennessee Department of Health, said that the presence of Austin Peay State University and Fort Campbell increases the number of younger people, who are more frequently affected by STDs.

The study also looked at other health factors and behaviors, including smoking, drinking, obesity, and teen births.

Montgomery County Health Department: Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)

The health department provides FREE and confidential testing and treatment for syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HIV. Contact follow-up conducted to avoid further spread of disease. Services are available without parental consent. Testing is done on a walk-in basis : M – F, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. Always call to make sure the walk-in times are available.

(931) 648-5747