Lib Dems warn young Londoners of soaring sex disease danger

4.15.57pm GMT Thu 10th Mar 2005

London Assembly Liberal Democrats today warned young Londoners to 'get clued up' on the risks of Sexual Transmitted Infections (STIs) as they revealed new figures that show the rate of Chlamydia infections in children under-16's has rocketed by 69% across London in the last four years.

The latest figures, based on breakdowns from Strategic Heath Authorities, show that in under-16's, Chlamydia infections have

· Increased by 193% in North West London

· Increased by 107% in North Central London

· Increased by 104% in North East London

Figures also suggest that up to one in ten women in London are infected with Chlamydia. London has experienced a number of major syphilis outbreaks over the last three years, even though in 1996 it had almost been eradicated from the capital.

Dee Doocey said:-

"The increase in sexual infections in young Londoners is deeply worrying. What is equally disturbing is that so many young people are either unaware or ignorant of the risks of STIs.

"Since it is very common to have no symptoms with Chlamydia, people are often none the wiser. But Chlamydia is the most commonly diagnosed disease at sexual health clinics, and left untreated it can lead to infertility.

However the good news is that as long as people get to a clinic in time, Chlamydia can easily be treated and cured with antibiotics.

"Young people must get clued up about STIs and realise that although protection against HIV/AIDS is important, there are many other sexual infections that are spreading rapidly across London.

"STIs can cause horrible infections and impotence. It is vital that if a young person is sexually active they go for regular check ups at sexual health clinics to prevent these diseases spreading to partners."