Test Not Talk screening for asymptomatic men

Abstract

This audit reviews the first year's experience within a rapid comprehensive sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV screening for asymptomatic men in a small-integrated sexual health clinic in outer London. Men requesting STI/HIV screening only were offered symptom self-assessment, blood tests for syphilis and HIV, and first void urine tests for chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Of 468 available appointments, 337 were made (72%) and 303 were kept (80%). Of the 303 attendances, 264 (87%) were first-ever attendances. Of the 303 men seen, 295 (97.4%) underwent chlamydia and gonorrhoea testing, while 246 (80.9%) were tested for syphilis and HIV. No new HIV diagnoses were made. One patient was diagnosed with late latent syphilis and one had asymptomatic gonorrhoea, while 20 (6.6%) diagnoses of chlamydia were made. We believe that Test Not Talk clinics offer a good approach to rapid screening of asymptomatic men and to meet their sexual health needs.