VIAGRA NEWS

Source: Barking & Dagenham Recorder

Date: 22-Nov-2007

OLDER people are increasingly at risk of HIV infection because they are failing to practise safe sex.

Researchers have discovered that because of the opportunities offered by internet dating sites - giving the over-50s more chances to meet new sexual partners - and medications such as Viagra, older people are now enjoying an active sex life for longer than previous generations.

"There is a popular perception that older people aren't as interested in sex as younger people," said research author Stacy Lindau of Chicago University.

"Our study shows this is simply not true - older people value sexuality as an important part of life."

Alison Scally of Barking and Dagenham Age Concern said: "Unfortunately, we do not do any work on sexual health at the moment, although we would signpost people, if they asked, to any relevant organisations and information points."

One of those information points is Barking and Dagenham Primary Care Trust.

A trust spokesman said: "The PCT recognises the importance of good sexual health as a key aspect of health and wellbeing throughout an individual's life.

"We ran a sexual health awareness campaign in August which gave information on HIV and sexual health and publicised local services.

"Work continues across the borough to promote awareness of sexual health and wellbeing. For example, the PCT is working with the Barking and Dagenham Faith Forum to highlight World Aids Day, publicise the work with faith communities to support individuals living with HIV, and promote access and awareness of HIV testing as part of an individual's opportunity to protect their health."

The Chicago University survey showed that the safer sex message was not getting through to those who needed it. Nearly six out of 10 unmarried women in the study said they didn't use a condom the last time they had sex.

A further study by Ohio State University found that 27 per cent of HIV infected men and 35 per cent of HIV infected women over 50 admitted they sometimes have sex without condoms.