Have you got it? ... Get it checked, get it treated!

Did you know that 30% of people living in Wiltshire have CHLAMYDIA? It's the most common diagnosed STI and the number of new cases keeps rising. Young men and women aged 16 to 24 are most at risk although people of all ages can be affected.

So if you answer YES to any of the following, why not take the test?

• Have you had unprotected oral, anal or vaginal sex?
• Are you aged between 16 and 24?
• Are you male or female?
• Do you live in Wiltshire?

Call us on 01722 421951, or email us at info@wsmsh.org.uk for your free postal testing kit. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Published: 16th January 2008 by Lee (updated Thu 21st Jan)

Gay men three times more likely to use drugs

New figures show that gay men are over three times more likely to use drugs than other Londoners. While 11.2% of Londonís population has tried drugs in the last year, the figure jumps to 37.2% for gay and bi men. Alcohol was the most frequently used drug amongst gay men, followed by poppers, marijuana, ecstasy, Viagra and cocaine. Taking drugs and drinking alcohol have both been linked with a greater likelihood of unprotected sex, so GMFA have launched a new ad campaign which helps men plan for safer sex if they're taking drugs or drinking alcohol, and carries details of support and advice services for men who are having problems with their drug or alcohol use.

"Drugs and alcohol can lower inhibitions and affect your judgment," said Matthew Hodson, Head of programmes for GMFA. "Men do things when theyíre drunk or on drugs that they wouldnít normally do, and which they know are risky. Planning for safer sex makes it less likely that youíll end up regretting the decisions you make whilst under the influence ... Although taking drugs can play a role in HIV transmission, they are not the cause of HIV. Whether you take drugs or not, safer sex is the best way to reduce the risks."

Find out more at the GMFA website (or or visit our drugs and alcohol section).

Published: 1st January 2008 by Lee (updated Thu 21st Jan)