Sexually transmitted diseases are preventable ailments that can cause harmful and costly complications, including reproductive health problems, fetal and perinatal health problems, and cancer.

Black or African American residents have consistently had the highest rate of chlamydia infection in Monroe County, with 246 infections per 10,000 African American residents in 2020. However, rates are declining: this rate is 14% lower than what it was in 2010. In the City of Rochester, the rate was higher than the county rate at 274 per 10,000 residents, but 26% lower than the level in 2010. Among other ethnic groups, Hispanic or Latino rates were 101 per 10,000 in the County and 136 per 10,000 in the City, and white rates were 24 per 10,000 in the County and 54 per 10,000 in the City.

Racial disparities in chlamydia infection are the result of several factors including poverty, education level, language status, health coverage, health care quality and employment. When access to health care is limited, preventive health screenings may not take place. Mistrust of the health care system may delay Blacks and Hispanics from connecting with the health system for testing and treatment for conditions including sexually transmitted diseases. Living in a community with a high incidence of sexually transmitted disease, having a high number of sexual partners and lack of condom use can all increase the likelihood of infection. Stress caused by racism can weaken the immune system increasing the susceptibility to a STD. A distorted self-image that results from internalized racism can also contribute to involvement with risky sexual behaviors and/or delay in health care. These disparities are further complicated when race intersects with homophobia, transphobia and xenophobia.

Not all sexually transmitted disease cases are reported. Variations in screening procedures and community awareness can have an impact on recorded trends. Data for Hispanics not available before 2004.