From today's local paper (Sheffield)

[JackHorny]

http://www.sheffieldtoday.net/ViewArtic ... eID=792166

Not entirely on-topic, I would agree, but at the same time it perhaps adds weight to the argument associated with justifying more frequent industry testing.

Syphilis cases show big rise at hospital

A NOTORIOUS sexually transmitted disease is making a comeback in 21st century Sheffield - a top doctor revealed today.

The number of syphilis cases treated at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital has increased steeply, indicating adults are having more sexual partners but failing to practice safe sex.
So far doctors have treated 26 people with syphilis already year compared to 30 during the whole of 2003, and just a handful in 2000.
Dr George Kinghorn, consultant in Genito-Urinary Medicine, said: "Syphilis was the HIV of the 15th and 16th century - and unfortunately it is making a come back.
"It is, like all the bacterial sexually transmitted diseases, increasing in many areas. In Sheffield we are seeing an increasing number of cases."
If caught in the early stages syphilis can be successfully treated.
But for women the disease can be harder to detect than in men, so signs may not show up until the disease has caused heart and nerve damage. The infection also poses a risk to unborn babies.
The Royal Hallamshire Hospital say the increase in syphilis comes at a time when they are seeing record numbers of patients requesting testing for infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HIV.
In April GUM clinic saw 1,317 patients - an all time monthly record.
Dr Kinghorn said: "People are having sex at an earlier age and an increasing number of sexual partners."
Last year over 2000 cases of chlamydia were reported at Sheffield's GUM Clinic alone.
FACTFILE
Chlamydia poses great risk to unborn babies and is the leading cause of neonatal conjunctivitis.
Syphilis infection can cause miscarriage, still-birth, or a damaged baby.
Anyone wishing to be tested should visit their GP, Family Planning Clinic or the Genito-Urinary Medicine clinic (0114 2766928).

17 May 2004