American Social Health Association Changes Name to American Sexual Health Association

Jan. 7, 2013 - PRLog -- Since 1914 the American Social Health Association (ASHA) has been America’s non-profit authority on sexually transmitted infections (STI) and their impact on individuals, families, and communities. We began our work during World War I as the American Social Hygiene Association, and later changed our name to the American Social Health Association. As of January 2013 we have formally become the American Sexual Health Association.

Why change the name? We believe a large part of our mission is to make discussions around sexual health normal and natural. ASHA president and CEO Lynn B. Barclay explains: “Our nation’s overall health is impacted by our lack of comfort in talking about sexual health. This includes STIs, unplanned pregnancy, healthy relationships, and more. The new name reflects our commitment to meeting these issues head on.”  

The move also reflects the way the field is evolving as it moves from a focus on “diseases” to a more positive sexual health model. Barclay adds “The change is a bold one – some might even say ‘scary’ as we push and pull Americans into talking about their sexual health-  but it’s necessary as we fulfill our mission of reaching out to all Americans about the value of sexual health. The challenge is great, but so is our passion for sexual health!”

We invite you to visit us online at www.ASHAsexualhealth.org where you’ll find an array of resources for the public, health professionals, media, and parents.