MEN and women in Mid Devon aged over 40 are the target of a sexual health campaign launched by an NHS clinic in Exeter.

The Centre, managed by the Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust, is aiming to raise awareness among over-40s of the sexual health and contraceptive services it provides.

The move comes ahead of Sexual Health Week 2014, which runs from September 15 to 21.

Data from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) shows that the number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continues to rise among those aged 45 to 64, while HIV diagnoses have doubled in the over-50s over the past decade.

April Brooks, senior nurse at The Centre, said some of these trends were evident locally and could be attributed to higher levels of unprotected sex and changes in lifestyle and attitudes.

She said: “The average age for men and women to get divorced in England and Wales is in their early 40s.

“Therefore many individuals in their 40s are now dating again.

“The Royal Pharmaceutical Society found that almost 20 per cent of people aged 45 to 54 had unprotected sex in the last year with someone other than a long-term partner.

“Whatever their circumstances, people in this age group may not have had to think about contraception or sexual health for many years.

“Safer sex messages aimed at young people may make them feel that these warnings are not relevant to them, but STIs are making a comeback in this generation and we all need to be vigilant.”

Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council's improving health and wellbeing portfolio holder, said: “Sexual ill-health can affect people of all ages.

“Sexuality and the way an individual expresses him or herself may change over time.

“To make informed and responsible decisions, individuals need to be aware of the risks they face, how to protect their sexual health and how to access appropriate and confidential services when required.”

To book an appointment at The Centre, call 01392 284982 or 284983: