Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to be a huge health risk in the UK.
In 2010 the Health Protection Agency reported that there were 418,598 newly diagnosed cases of sexually transmitted infections in the UK. In men, over half of all newly diagnosed STIs were found to be in young men under the age of 25 years. This is even more alarming because young men under 25 years old only make up 12% of the population in the UK.

• Of 11,541 male gonorrhea cases diagnosed in the UK 41% were men under 25 years
• Of 49,105 cases of male genital warts, 47% of men who were diagnosed were under 25 years
• Of 84,863 new cases of male Chlamydia, 69% of these men were under 25 years

High rates of STI diagnoses have also been found among men who have sex with men.

Evidence shows that young women are more at risk of catching an STI because they can lack the confidence and communication skills to negotiate safe sex. Although most men will wear a condom, they won’t bother, unless their partner asks them to. Similarly, re-infection rates are also high in young heterosexual people, 11% and 12% of  women or men, respectively, will be re-infected within twelve months.

If you are worried that you might have an STI you should visit your GP, Sexual Health Clinic or GUM clinic immediately.

Take control – always wear a condom

For more information on STIs, please click here