A health campaign is urging people to undergo free tests for the sexually transmitted infection - Chlamydia.

Chlamydia, a bacterial infection, remains an unspoken taboo in the Asian community and a campaign is aiming to dispel some of the myths surrounding it.

Due to the controversial nature of the sexually transmitted disease that stems from cultural perceptions, Asian people remain reluctant to come forward to have a test it has been claimed.

The bacteria is usually spread through sex or contact with infected genital fluids.

It is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the UK. It can’t be passed on through casual contact, such as kissing and hugging, or from sharing baths, towels, swimming pools, toilet seats or cutlery.

Most people who have chlamydia will have no symptoms so people don’t know they have it.

The longer chlamydia is left untreated, the increase in problems for both men and women including infertility.

The Best 2 Know team wants to raise awareness about chlamydia so an infection can be identified sooner and thus treated more quickly.

The team has listened to what young Asian people want in relation to chlamydia testing and how they want to receive test results.

Several people who did not wish to be named spoke about how important it was for people to get tested.

A 16-year-old Asian girl said, “I got a chlamydia test kit posted to my friend’s house. I was so relieved I didn’t have to go to my doctors where everyone knows me and my family.”

A 22-year-old Asian woman revealed she had been trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant, and would now take the test out of concerns about her husband’s fidelity.

An 18-year-old Asian man expressed his relief at the subtle delivery of his chlamydia test results.

“I can’t believe I’ve got chlamydia. I only did the test because the results come directly to my phone.”

Testing for chlamydia is completely painless, free and confidential. You don’t always need a physical examination by a nurse or doctor.

Best 2 Know offer tests for chlamydia in a discreet manner at a contraception or sexual health clinic.

Tests can also be taken at one of the many community events especially held in colleges and schools across Lancashire.

A 19-year-old Asian man took advantage of the screening at his college.

“I’m still in disbelief that I have chlamydia. The reason I took the test in college is because they were offering a free gift!.”

Currently in Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley and East Lancashire, one in 12 people aged between 15–24-years-old contract chlamydia. Imtiaz Patel, Community Sexual Health Development Officer, Sexual Health Team LCFT said., “Chlamydia is becoming one of the most common infections in the UK affects all ages, culture and faith groups, especially to young people because of their lifestyle.

“It’s a tricky infection with no symptoms initially. If you are in doubt go for chlamydia screening.

“Once detected, treatment is possible but untreated infection can cause serious reproductive health consequences.

“Due to culture, social, beliefs and other values, there are certain barriers exist between the South Asian community and awareness of Reproductive Health. We need to minimise this divide by acquiring more information and awareness about reproductive health and infections around us.”

For more information about a free chlamydia test, visit www.best2know.co.uk or text BEST to 82540 and a kit will be sent to you.