Wednesday, July 15, 2009
THT joins forces with telly doc and private clinic
Better2Know, the UK’s largest network of private clinics offering sexual health testing, has entered into a partnership with THT (Terrence Higgins Trust) to increase access to testing and sexual health information for people living in the UK. Its newly appointed Medical Director is Dr Christian Jessen the presenter of popular television programmes Embarrassing Illnesses, Supersize Vs. Superskinny and BAFTA award winning Embarrassing Bodies.
Dr Jessen said:
"STI rates are continuing to soar in the UK, so it is really important that there is a continued commitment to raise awareness of sexual health issues and make testing more accessible and convenient for everyone."
In addition to the unprecedented STI infection rates amongst the UK’s under 25s, there has been a recently reported surge in STI diagnoses in the over 45s. Recently-published government data show that between 1998 and 2007 rates of Chlamydia rose amongst 45-64 year olds by 231% in men and 160% in women.
Bronwen Roberts, Director of Service Development at THT said:
“To encourage more people to come forward for STI testing, it needs to be quick and easy to take a test. Clinics should be accessible both in terms of location and opening times. People may prefer to test at their local GUM (Genito-Urinary Medicine) clinic, at a THT clinic or at a private clinic. The more options people have, the better.”
Appointments can made with Better2Know by calling 0870 783 8378
For more information about THT view:
www.tht.org.uk
Pictured: Dr Christian Jessen
