Cell Phones Will Soon Test for STDs

Many people find it very embarrassing to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases. Some are so embarrassed that they even put off getting tested, as there is always that small chance that they do not have a STD. Luckily, this problem will soon be solved. A new cell phone application, which will be released in the UK, can tell you whether or not you have been infected by STDs. Here are answers to a few questions based on the information that has so far been released about this innovative technology.

How will Cell Phones Test for STDs?

This new method of STD testing will work similarly to a home pregnancy test. According to the Guardian, you will put urine or saliva on a computer chip and insert it into your cell phone. If you don't have a cell phone handy, the chip can also be inserted into your computer. Once inserted, the application will tell you which sexually transmitted diseases you have. After you have been diagnosed in the privacy of your own home, you will be able to make an appointment with your doctor for treatment.

Which STDs will Cell Phones Test for?

A full list of STDs that the cell phone application will test for has not yet been released. It will test for chlamydia and gonorrhea, however, which are two sexually transmitted infections which can lead to infertility among women if they are left untreated. According to the Body, the Complete HIV/AIDS Resource, the cell phone chip will also be able to test for HIV.

What are the Pros and Cons of Cell Phone STD Testing?

The advantages of testing for STDs through a cell phone or computer chip are obvious. People will be able to be tested for sexually transmitted diseases from the privacy of their own homes. Medical experts are hoping that this will help reduce the number of STDs in the UK.

While there are benefits associated with testing for sexually transmitted diseases through cell phones, some experts have concerns about this method of testing. For starters, it will prevent those who test for HIV from getting counseling before taking the test. Some also have doubts about the accuracy of this method of STD testing. If it does prove to be accurate, will women continue visiting the doctor for routine Pap smear tests to prevent cervical cancer? Will we soon be able to test for every type of disease through cell phone and computer applications and, if so, what will happen to laboratory jobs?

There is no word yet on when cell phone chips to test for sexually transmitted diseases will be released. While there are undoubtedly pros and cons associated with new technology, we can only hope that cell phone STD testing will change the world.

Sources:

The Body, the Complete HIV/AIDS Resource, "Behind the Cell Phone Chip: Will it Detect HIV?"

The Guardian, "Mobile phone kits to diagnose STDs."