How prevalent are STIs in Kansas City? Area rates top Missouri average, data shows
Jackson County has almost double the state average of sexually transmitted infections, according to 2024 data from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
There were 6,156 cases of chlamydia in the county in 2024, which includes municipalities such as Kansas City, Independence, Raytown and Lee’s Summit. This is 85% higher than the Missouri rate of chlamydia.
In addition, there were 769 cases of syphilis and 2,450 cases of gonorrhea, the latter of which is twice the Missouri average.
The only jurisdiction with a higher total rate of STIs than Jackson County in 2024 was St. Louis City. Missouri’s rates of those three STIs in 2023 were higher than the national average, according to CDC data.
Data on HIV in Jackson County in 2024 was not available at the time of publication.
Nationwide in 2023, certain groups were disproportionately affected by STIs, also called sexually transmitted diseases. Those include Black and Native American individuals, people ages 15-24, and men who have sex with men. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that the differences likely reflect access to quality health care, not just differences in sexual behavior.
While infections can be symptomless, they can cause larger health issues if left untreated. With proper treatment, chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis can be cured.
How can I get tested for STIs?
To get tested for HIV or STIs, you can talk to your usual health care provider or go to a clinic or other health organization. Search by ZIPcode on GetTested.CDC.gov.
The Kansas City Health Department offers free testing and treatment for STDs. You do not need to be a Kansas City resident, and anyone 13 or older can get tested without a parent’s permission. Call 816-513-6379 to make an appointment.
Jackson County Public Health offers $20 testing at their Lee’s Summit office. Make an appointment on the organization’s website or call 816-404-6416.
Have more questions about health in the Kansas City area? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com.
This story was originally published April 1, 2025 at 12:00 AM.
