Big Increase in Patients With Sexually Transmitted Diseases

By Paul Rowland Western Mail

Sexual health clinics in South Wales are being forced to turn patients away because of a dramatic increase in the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases.

A report presented to Rhondda Cynon Taf local health board claimed that half of those seeking an appointment in one of the clinics would not get one, while many of those who did would be forced to wait several weeks.

The problem is being blamed on a huge increase in the number of patients suffering from STDs, with an 800% increase between 2003 and 2004 in the number of people treated for gonorrhoea.

Leanne Wood AM, Plaid Cymru’s shadow social justice minister, claimed the situation demanded more funding. ‘Clearly, there needs to be more investment in this neglected area of the health service,’ she said.

‘I want the Government to undertake more preventative work.

‘We also need better sex education in schools and more resources for services, such as sexual health clinics.’