STD Test – Infecting the internet
As STD test statistics show, the message about safe sex still isn’t getting through, but could e-cards and social networking sites online help?
The internet has revolutionized how we communicate, how we shop, how we search for jobs, find information, talk to friends and now, even how we deal with STDs. In an attempt to infiltrate the youth market, developers have designed things such as the ‘Infect your Friends’ application for Facebook. In Canada, the Calgary Herald reported on a similar phenomenon, where rather than going in for an STD test to find out you have an infection, internet users were sent e-cards warning them of an unwanted STI.
STD test – a novel message
Whereas most e-cards safely tell you to have a happy birthday or merry Christmas, now an e-card could tell you something a lot less uplifting – that you are at risk of an STI. Many people rely on ex-partners coming forward warning them of a possible STI risk, prompting them to take an STD test. But this new initiative is aimed at those who want to break the bad news to former partners anonymously. It was feared many people were not going for STD tests simply because their partner hadn’t told them of the risks or if they were infected.
STI rates keep soaring
The e-cards are not exactly subtle, but the hope is that more people will be prompted to take an STD test when they read lines such as: “I got screwed while screwing, you might have too.” More countries, including the UK, are turning to the internet to spread the message about STI risks and the importance of taking an STD test as STI rates are soaring. The fact that an increasing number of people are meeting online through dedicated sites and dating agencies also makes the internet the perfect place to raise awareness.
Encouraging youth to take STD test
MySpace has also been targeted to help encourage younger people to take an STD test and raise awareness of the risks of STDs. The social networking site beloved by teenagers dedicated a webpage to information about the risks of STDs as well as offering a forum for anonymous questions to health professionals. Web-based social networking has taken over many young adult’s lives, transforming the way they communicate. It makes sense then that health professionals tap into the phenomena and encourage more people to step forward and take an STD test.
Looking for an STD test? CITYDOC can help
For a complete range of STD tests, London based CITYDOC is ideally and discreetly located in the City of London for fast, professional and discreet service. Based at the junction of City Road and Finsbury Square, CITYDOC is open for walk-in patients or you can book your appointment by contacting the practice now on 0207 256 8668. The clinic offers full sexual screens for men and women. If you are thinking about an STD Test, contact CITYDOC today.
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