THT's One-hour 'Fastest' Service Aims To Reduce Undiagnosed HIV In Cardiff

Main Category: HIV / AIDS
Article Date: 19 May 2009 - 8:00 PDT

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In a bid to reduce levels of undiagnosed HIV in Cardiff, HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is encouraging people who may have been at risk to attend a local service offering one-hour HIV testing. One in four people who have HIV in the UK are undiagnosed, and there are now more people living with the condition than ever before.

THT's 'Fastest' service is free and confidential, and involves taking a finger-prick blood test which is analysed straight away, with the results provided within one hour. Those who attend the clinic will be given information and support before and after the test, and anyone who tests positive will be given full support in choosing a treatment centre. They will also be given information on the range of support services available, including counselling and peer support.

Gavin Mooney, Centre Manager for THT in Cardiff, said: "With recent medical advances, it's now possible for people with HIV to live long and healthy lives. However, if they leave it too late to get tested, they're setting themselves up for serious health problems and the risk of early death. In the UK, gay men and Africans are the groups most at risk of contracting HIV, but if you've had unprotected sex you may have put yourself at risk, so we'd urge you to get tested as soon as possible."

THT clinics and workers also offer information and advice on STIs and safer sex, as well as giving out free condoms.

The Fast Test service takes place at THT's Cardiff centre at 435-451 Cowbridge Road East. Each week, there are sessions on Tuesdays from 6.00pm to 8.00pm. The number of tests that can be done at each session are limited, so people are advised to arrive early.

Source
Terrence Higgins Trust