The Elephant in the Room - talking about sex could help cut STI rates even further

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are falling across England, but NHS leaders across the North East and North Cumbria say there is still more work to do.

New figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show STI diagnoses dropped by 8.3 per cent last year, a welcome sign that more people are getting tested, using protection and accessing sexual health services.

But despite the good news, the North East still has some of the highest STI rates in the country. Half of all new diagnoses in the region are among people aged 15 to 24 with Chlamydia the most common infection, accounting for more than half of all new STI cases.

A new NHS campaign the 'Elephant in the Room' hopes to keep the numbers moving in the right direction by encouraging young people to talk openly about sexual health.

The campaign uses bold social media content and simple messaging to remind people that getting tested is normal, condoms help prevent infections and there is no need to feel embarrassed about asking for help.

Health leaders hope that by tackling the 'Elephant in the Room', even more people will take steps to protect their sexual health and help drive infection rates down across the region.

Dr Alexandra Kent, medical director, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: "It is very good news to see that STI rates are falling nationally, but there is still a lot more to do to further reduce these infections that can cause serious harm.

"Sexual health is an important part of staying healthy, but many people still find it difficult to talk about.

"We want all young people to see sexual health checks as something normal. Getting tested, using protection and asking questions are responsible things to do and help protect both you and your partners."

Many STIs have no symptoms, meaning people can have an infection without knowing it and pass it on to others. If left untreated, some infections can cause serious health problems later in life.

Lorraine Hughes, director of public health, Darlington Borough Council and regional lead for sexual health, said: "The fall in STI diagnoses is encouraging, but rates among young people are still too high.

"We hope the Elephant in the Room campaign will help more young people feel confident about getting tested, accessing free condoms and finding support when they need it."

Testing for STIs is free and confidential through local sexual health services, and home testing kits are also available.

For more information visit: www.elephant-in-the-room.co.uk