American Sexual Health Association

The American Social Health Association (ASHA) is a non-profit voluntary organization dedicated to stopping sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and their harmful consequences to individuals, families, and communities. Established in 1914, ASHA provides direct patient support through the Herpes Resource Center/National Herpes Hotline and the HPV Support Group, which coordinate a network of over 100 local support groups and publish quarterly journals. ASHA also operates the National AIDS Hotline and the National STD Hotline, both under contract with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as the FIRST STEP Hotline and Health Check Hotline, components of North Carolina’s effort to improve the health and development of children in the state. In addition, ASHA advocates for increased funding for STD programs and public policies on STD control, working through its office in Washington D.C.; provides leadership for the National Coalition to Fight Sexually Transmitted Diseases; and operates the Women’s Health Matters program. The organization also administers the ASHA Research Fund for STD research. ASHA’s materials include an annual report, quarterly catalog, and pamphlets.