Mission: To make health a top priority for everyone in Northern Ireland.

Sexually transmitted infections quadruple in five years

As the number of cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) treated in Northern Ireland continues to grow, the message from the Health Promotion Agency on 'World AIDS Day' is 'Never underestimate peace of mind'. This is the theme of a new sexual health initiative for 18-30 year olds which focuses on safer sex and the promotion of sexual health services for young people in Northern Ireland.

The campaign looks at sexual health in general rather than focusing only on HIV and AIDS as around 16,500 new cases of sexually transmitted infections have been treated in Northern Ireland this year. This figure is more than four times the number of cases treated by Genito Urinary Medicine (GUM) clinics five years ago.

While most people are aware of the risks posed by HIV, other STIs are less well known. One of the infections which is increasing most rapidly among young people in Northern Ireland is chlamydia. Of those who contract chlamydia, 75% of women and 50% of men will feel no symptoms at all but if left untreated it can lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancy.

Although chlamydia is one of the most common STIs in Northern Ireland awareness of the disease is remarkably low. Dr Brian Gaffney, Chief Executive of the Health Promotion Agency said: "The Agency chose World AIDS Day to launch this campaign to raise awareness of sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, which young people may not be taking as seriously as they should.

"The campaign features a series of information posters which are placed in the toilet areas of commercial entertainment venues and university campuses, popular with the target age group. A dispenser with handy credit card size leaflets will also be attached to some of the posters. We know from research that this form of advertising is an excellent way of getting sensitive health information across to young people who might otherwise not have access to it."

A recent survey carried out on behalf of the Health Promotion Agency with the target age group showed that 90% of those interviewed had been sexually active in the past year and almost one third of that number had had three or more partners in the year leading up to the survey. Dr Gaffney added:

"It is hoped that by providing clear, factual information, young people will not be complacent about their sexual health but will be well informed and can ensure their behaviour does not put their health or even their life at risk."

The Agency's winter edition of its quarterly journal, Promoting Health, also focuses on the issue of sexual health. The journal, Taking a closer look at sexual health, includes articles on Sexual Health in Northern Ireland, Sexual Health Services in Northern Ireland - a time for change, Belfast Working Women's Health Project as well as a feature on Convenience Advertising: promoting sexual health through straight talking posters.

The posters will be displayed in various venues throughout Northern Ireland from 1 December and the campaign will run for four months.

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Notes to the editor: There are four GUM clinics in Northern Ireland:

*As of 16/09/02 the RVH's GUM Clinic operates on an appointment only system. To make an appointment telephone the number above or try the main RVH number 028 9024 0503 Ext. 4050