Rise in sex infections in Basildon over-40s (From Echo)

Rise in sex infections in Basildon over-40s

8:00am Monday 25th May 2009

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CASES of sexually transmitted diseases in the over-40s have doubled in the past two years, new figures reveal.

The rise is being attributed to a number of factors, including the increased use of Viagra, a surge in divorces and even internet dating.

Last year, about 4,000 men and women, aged 40 and over, sought sexual health services in the Basildon district, Thurrock and Brentwood – compared with just 2,000 in 2006.

The most common infections were chlamydia, genital warts, herpes, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HIV.

Dr Martin Lechelt, consultant in genito urinary medicine for NHS South West Essex Community Services, said: “In this day and age, it is not just the young who need to be concerned about sexual health.

“More than ever, people in their 40s are meeting and having sexual encounters with new partners.

“Unfortunately, sexually transmitted infections have no respect for age, so the over-40s really need to start taking their sexual health more seriously.”

The figures show, across the region last year, 1,924 men and 1,849 women aged 40 and above sought help.

This is compared with 1,272 men and 994 women in 2007.

However, cases in the 20 to 39-year-old category were still the highest – with 3,880 men and 4,464 women needing treatment, compared with 3,769 men and 4,135 women the previous year.

Statistics show 45 per cent of marriages are now expected to end in divorce, and people over 40 are less likely to use condoms.

Dr Lechelt said: “This really is a serious problem.

“If people do not start thinking about their sexual health, they are going to be at risk of some very nasty infections, which can have very serious health implications.”

It is also estimated that a third of all undiagnosed cases of HIV are in the over-40s.

For more information, call 01268 592215.

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