SEXUALLY transmitted diseases in Sheffield's over-45s are on the rise - as couples practise unsafe sex because they know they're not likely to get pregnant, it is believed.
A new report reveals older city folk are "no better informed" than youngsters about safe sex.
Their ignorance has led to a surge in the number of over-45s becoming infected with STIs because they are not using condoms when they form new relationsh
ips.
The report, prepared for the Health and Community Care Scrutiny and Policy Board of Sheffield Council, said: "Many are forming new relationships and not practising safe sex, assuming they are not at risk and do not need to use condoms as there is no risk of pregnancy."
The report added: "Evidence suggests nine out of 10 young people rarely or never think about HIV when making decisions over their sex lives.
"Older people are no better informed. There is evidence of older people increasingly becoming infected with STIs."
The information was provided by NHS Sheffield as part of a progress report on the preventative and responsive work being carried out in the city in relation to HIV and AIDS.
Steve Slack, director of the Sheffield Centre for HIV and Sexual Health, said it was important to recognise older people do have sex and help them understand the risks.
"We talk constantly about education for young people and we forget about older people.
"Many grew up when sex education was even less than it is now. It is not too late and people need to be better informed."
Mr Slack added: "We assume that because we are a more sexualised society we are better informed and know more than we actually do.
"The message we want to get out there is that sex is happening at all ages and anybody is capable of getting an STI."
He added healthcare professionals "need to get over any embarrassment and end stereotypes when it comes to asking people about their sex lives".
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