HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is urging young people in Barking and Dagenham to stem a recent increase in chlamydia by using condoms and having a sexual health check-up if they have put themselves at risk. With the festive season upon us, a combination of excess alcohol and the party atmosphere means more people put their sexual health at risk around Christmas than at any other time.

In 2007, those in the 16-24 age bracket accounted for nearly half of all STI diagnoses in the UK, and approximately one in ten under 25s in the UK currently has chlamydia without being aware that they have it. Part of the reason chlamydia is so widespread is that most people with the infection have no symptoms, and it only takes one sexual encounter to pass it on. If left untreated chlamydia can lead to serious health problems, including infertility.

Chlamydia tests are free, and involve taking a urine sample which is then posted off to the lab; results are available within a week.  For those who test positive, antibiotics to treat the infection are provided. THT clinics and workers also offer information and advice on STIs and safer sex to young people, as well as giving out free condoms. 
 
Adam Wilkinson, London Operations Manager for THT said: “Over the Christmas holidays we know that many young people will do a lot more than kiss under the mistletoe.  However, one in ten under 25s has chlamydia and risks passing it on through unprotected sex.  We’re determined to get this rate down, and want to make sure young people know that – where good sexual health is concerned - going for regular check-ups is just as important as using condoms. Chlamydia can now be detected through a simple urine sample, making this a very easy way to achieve peace of mind.”

For further information on chlamydia testing in Barking and Dagenham, please contact THT Direct on 0845 12 21 200 or visit www.tht.org.uk.

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Notes to editors

1. Terrence Higgins Trust is the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity with centres across England, Scotland and Wales. We're here to provide information and advice about HIV and sexual health and offer a range of services including sexual health checks, counselling and support groups.  We campaign for a world where people with HIV live healthy lives, free from prejudice and discrimination and we promote good sexual health as a right and reality for all. Terrence Higgins Trust relies on donations to deliver a wide range of services. To make a donation, visit www.tht.org.uk