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

In 2017, gonorrhea rates were highest among Monroe County's black or African American residents, with 93 cases for every 10,000 residents. This was down 45% since 2000 similar to the decline in the City of Rochester of 115 per 10,000. Rates were also higher among Hispanic residents in 2017 at 36 in Monroe County and 56 in the City of Rochester. White residents in Monroe County have consistently had the lowest rate for gonorrhea, at 6 in 2017, a decrease of 50% from 2000. The City of Rochester has had a smaller decline (11%) in that same time period for white residents.

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.