THT Urges Leeds Students Not To Give Their Loved Ones An Unwanted Gift This Valentine's Day, UK

Main Category: Sexual Health / STDs
Article Date: 27 Jan 2009 - 6:00 PDT

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HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is urging university students in Leeds to stem a recent increase in chlamydia by using condoms and attending a walk-in Fast Test service if they have put themselves at risk.

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.

As Leeds is a city with a high student population, THT are able to run a walk-in Fast Test service for under-25s. Funded by NHS Leeds, the service is free, and involves taking a urine sample which is then posted off to the lab; results are available within a week. For those who test positive, THT will provide antibiotics to treat the infection. HIV tests can also be taken using a finger-prick blood test, and the results provided within fifteen minutes. THT clinics and workers offer information and advice on STIs and safer sex to young people, as well as giving out free condoms.

The Fast Test service takes place at Oxford Chambers, next to Leeds Town Hall on Oxford Place. Each week, there are sessions on Mondays and Thursdays from 3.45pm to 8.00pm.

Melissa Briscoe, Regional Manager for THT in the North said: "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. With no need for an appointment, THT's dedicated Fast Test service in Leeds is a quick and easy way to achieve peace of mind."

For further information on the Fast Test service, please contact THT in Leeds on (0113) 246 9272, or visit http://www.tht.org.uk.

Notes

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 http://www.tht.org.uk

Terrence Higgins Trust

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