LOS ANGELES — SpankChain has partnered with PASS to create the first screening pilot initiative for Mycoplasma genitalium, also known as Mgen, and is offering free testing for up to 1,000 performers at a Las Vegas clinic.
"Mgen is an STI that was first identified in 1980. The lack of awareness around this little-known bacterium may be accounted for by the fact that it only affects 1-3% of the population, the symptoms are often confused with UTIs, and some infections are asymptomatic," a rep explained. "However, Mgen can have notable consequences, including urethritis in men and cervicitis in women. It is also increasingly resistant to antibiotics and takes weeks, sometimes months, to cure."
"Not only is the treatment process difficult and prolonged, additional injuries may be incurred and require further medical attention," the rep continued. "In an alarming turn of events, there has also been a notable increase in infections amongst adult talent in the past year, and there are currently no major adult testing services nor screening requirements that check for this specific infection."
With the support of SpankChain, PASS is offering 1,000 no-cost testing opportunities for the adult community to "raise awareness and encourage performers to protect each other by protecting themselves."
Testing will be conducted at the new TBD Health Clinic in Las Vegas. At-home test kits can also be sent to performers with addresses in Florida.
“Recent evidence suggests that Mgen may be more widespread than many realize, but testing for it is uncommon,” PASS Executive Director Ian O’Brien said. "The adult industry has been a historical leader in the fight for sexual health, and this innovative pilot will help us better understand if Mgen is affecting the performer community. I can not thank SpankChain enough for their generosity in funding this initiative."
Before enrolling, the rep said, every patient will be provided with information about drug resistance and the potential implications of a positive result. The test is administered via a urine sample. If a positive result is detected and action deemed appropriate, treatment will be offered by clinicians. Patients will also be given access to the TBD clinical team, whom they can message at any time for 90 days via an online portal.
"Fuck around and find out. You really don’t want this STI. I had it and it took several different antibiotic regimens over a few months to finally clear up. With this pilot program SpankChain hopes to help adult performers avoid this emerging health risk," SpankChain CEO Ameen Soleimani.
The rep noted that this SpankChain initiative is "not a study, but rather a way to start a conversation about sexual wellness and encourage healthy habits."
Testing will begin on Monday, April 11 and public enrollment for verified, actively shooting performers will begin today.
Over the next month, PASS and SpankChain will be working with production companies, platforms, creators and agents to reach eligible workers. Performers, models or content creators working or living in Nevada or Florida who would like to get tested as part of this pilot program should fill out an enrollment form here.
