Stigma surrounding STDs a threat to the UK's health

There is a lack of understanding among the public of the type of services available for the diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the UK and how to access them. More worryingly, the stigma associated with STDs is preventing some people from seeking the help they need and according to the FPA (formerly the Family Planning Association) is a 'threat to the nation's health'. These are the findings of new research released to coincide with Sexual Health Week in the UK.

The annual campaign is run by the FPA and focuses on a different aspect of sexual health every year. A survey conducted for the 2004 campaign, which examined attitudes among 18-30 year olds towards STDs and the services available, revealed a lack of understanding of the basics of getting help. Over 50% of those questioned were unaware they could go to a genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic without consulting their family doctor first and more than 80% were not aware that NHS prescriptions are free when receiving treatment from a GUM clinic.

This survey also clearly highlighted the sense of shame still associated with STDs. More than a quarter (28%) of respondents admitted that the embarrassment of having an STD would be sufficient to prevent or delay them from seeking help and nearly one in five (18%) would be deterred by the prospect of having a medical examination. 17% would be deterred by the idea of having to tell their partner and 11% would be sufficiently worried about the attitude of health professionals to avoid seeking immediate help.

Anne Weyman, Chief Executive of the FPA comments: The secrecy and stigma that surrounds STDs is a threat to the nation's health. Worries about being judged by health professionals or the treatment process are unfounded, yet these myths persist."

A separate survey of GUM services in the UK revealed that there has been little expansion in the provision of NHS services since 2002, despite record levels of attendance for diagnosis of STDs. Over half (54%) of the 256 clinics across the UK advertised opening times of less than 21 hours per week. More than 20% of clinics had increased access by adding new sessions, but a further 16% had cut sessions, leading to a net gain of just 31 sessions across the country. Just two new clinics had opened since 2002.

An encouraging 66% of GUM clinics held at least one session a week after 5pm, in order to make access more convenient, but only one clinic in the survey was open on a Saturday.

Source
FPA, www.fpa.org.uk