THE Union of Students
in Ireland (USI) has launched its online Sexual
Health Awareness Guide (SHAG) as a HSE report shows
an increase in sexually transmitted diseases among
men and women.
The report shows a 22.1% increase in cases of
syphilis from 2014 to 2015. Early infectious
syphilis diagnoses were 2,290% higher in men than in
women with 24 men diagnosed per woman.
There was also an increase in chlamydia with 6,815
reported diagnoses in 2015, up from 6,693 in 2014.
There were also a 3.3% increase in genital herpes
compared to two years ago.
“We are urging students and young people to look
after their sexual health," said USI president Annie
Hoey.
“Getting tested is quick, painless and usually free
at college health clinics, GUM clinics and sexual
health clinics.”
The union, which represents 354,000 students across
the island of Ireland, has emphasised that early
detection and treatment of STIs is absolutely vital
to minimise the possibility of long-term health
damage.
More information at shag.usi.ie . |
