HIV test : London Heterosexuals At Risk?

Every sexually active person should have an HIV test in London.

The full-on HIV and AIDS campaigns of the 1980s made a big impact on the population and encouraged many people – particularly gay men – to get tested for HIV. At that time, having the disease could cause big problems for the individual, both at work and in private, but today, HIV is accepted and treatments have moved on. It’s not surprise then, that the gay community is aware of the need for HIV tests in London and the number of people taking the test is rising. There is an area of concern however, and that’s the incidence of HIV in heterosexual people.

HIV test – London raises awareness of all

HIV can be easily spread from one person to another – although not through kissing or sharing a bathroom as many people mistakenly thought when the infection was first identified. It can certainly be passed from a male to a female during unprotected intercourse, however, and it’s the lack of awareness from this group that most worries health professionals. The number of heterosexual people contracting the virus is reportedly on the increase, but many are unaware of the risks and so won’t even think about the importance of taking an HIV test. So, how can we raise awareness?

• Campaigns – national advertising campaigns do make a difference. The campaigns of the 1980s were stark and to the point, leaving no room for doubt about how dangerous the HIV virus could be if left untreated. Experts say new, hard-hitting campaigns are needed to raise the awareness of a new generation of sexually active teens, as well as those in their twenties, who were too young for the original campaigns to have any influence.

• Local awareness – specialist health clinics, GP surgeries and hospitals can all highlight the importance of getting an HIV test. London clinics, both NHS and private can help patients to understand how the virus is transmitted and how they can help patients to get the treatment and support they need.

• Schools – schools and universities need to tackle sexual health head-on. Students don’t just need information about how to get an HIV test. London schools and those across the country need to show how students can protect themselves against the virus, making sure that they are practising safe sex as a matter of course.

If you’re worried about getting an HIV test, London clinics like CityDoc can help by offering a confidential testing service and a referral to a specialist if you need one.

CityDoc gives you all the medical services you need, right in the heart of London. With a clinic in Harley Street and one on Moorgate, this is the ideal GP practice for busy Londoners. Offering individual care, and a corporate health services to businesses, CityDoc provides a comprehensive healthcare service, with rapid referrals to specialists where necessary. Whether you’re looking for a private doctor, an STD test or other sexual health tests, a single MMR for your child, or you just need inoculations before your next holiday, CityDoc can help. Call for an appointment on 0207 935 6260 (West End) or 0207 256 8668 (City) or just fill in our online form for more information.

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