One-hour 'Fastest' Service Aims To Reduce Undiagnosed HIV In Newham

Main Category: HIV / AIDS
Article Date: 14 Jul 2009 - 5:00 PDT

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An HIV 'Fastest' clinic opens this week and will run in Stratford on Mondays from 6pm-9pm. In a bid to reduce levels of undiagnosed HIV, HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT), Widows and Orphans International and NHS Newham are encouraging residents of Newham who may have been at risk to attend the local service.

Many people don't necessarily think of themselves as having been at risk and one in four people who have HIV in the UK are undiagnosed. The 'Fastest' service is free and confidential, and involves taking a finger-prick blood test which is analysed straight away, with the results provided within an hour.

Those who attend the clinic will be given information and support before and after the test, and anyone who tests positive will also be given information on the range of help, treatment and services available, including counselling and peer support. As well as the weekly clinic, there is also a monthly mobile clinic which will visit different venues across the borough.

Adam Wilkinson, Regional Delivery Manager for London at Terrence Higgins Trust 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. This service is aimed particularly at Africans but if you've had unprotected sex and think you have put yourself at risk, we'd urge you to get tested as soon as possible."

The clinic also offers information and advice on sexually transmitted infections and safer sex, as well as giving out free condoms.

The Fastest service takes place at St John's Church, Broadway, Stratford on Mondays from 6pm-9pm. The number of tests that can be done at each session are limited, so people are advised to arrive early.

Source
Terrence Higgins Trust

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