(15 Aug 2002)

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) will be the focus of the fpa's Sexual Health Week (5-11 August) in the UK this year. Current high infection rates in the UK indicate a lack of knowledge about STIs, so two new leaflets and postcards will be launched by the fpa, formerly the Family Planning Association, and will be included in a campaign pack to be sent to genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics, family planning clinics, health promotion and teenage pregnancy units around the country.

According to the fpa, over 11,500 people will be treated for an STI at a GUM clinic during Sexual Health Week, that's one person every minute of the day, and calls to fpa's helpline show that men and women often lack the most basic information about infections. The two new leaflets, STIs: where to go for help and advice and Chlamydia, are part of a series the fpa will be producing over the coming year.

Also included in the pack are postcards printed with special heat sensitive ink and show the torso of either a man or woman's body. When kissed, these cards reveal the words 'Congratulations, you may have got a sexual infection'.

Anne Weyman, fpa chief executive told the IHA newsdesk: 'STIs are common, yet many people are unaware they have an infection. Some STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea may show no symptoms and remain undiagnosed, but if left untreated can cause serious health problems. Many people are embarrassed to ask for help. Our new leaflets and postcards, distributed via health professionals, will help provide key information.'