The Doctor Is In

“THE DOCTOR IS IN” Event Kicks Off Syphilis Testing campaign Saturday

“THE DOCTOR IS IN” EVENT KICKS OFF SYPHILIS TESTING CAMPAIGN SATURDAY

WHO:    Family Health Centers of San Diego

WHAT:    “The Doctor Is In” kickoff event for the We All Test campaign to encourage regular syphilis testing by gay men.

WHEN:    Saturday, April 24, 3pm – 7 pm.  Note: We All Test spokespeople will be available for interview on site from 4:30 to 6 pm.  Interviews outside that time frame can be arranged by calling the contact above.

WHERE:    Urban Mo’s Bar and Grill, 308 University Avenue, Hillcrest

=================================

( San Diego )  San Diego County experienced a 143% increase is syphilis between 2003 and 2009.  Gay men accounted for 84% of the 2009 cases.  Undiagnosed and untreated syphilis can lead to serious illness, including paralysis and dementia, or even death.  It can also remain latent and without symptoms for years.  The only sure way to diagnose the disease is through a blood test. Once syphilis is diagnosed it can be completely cured through antibiotics.  Testing every 3 to 6 months is recommended.

The “We All Test” campaign will offer a service through which those enrolling will receive email or text message reminders to be tested for syphilis.  The campaign features a diverse group of gay San Diegans explaining why they signed up for testing reminders and why others should do the same. 

The kick-off event, “The Doctor Is In,” will be a fun affair with a serious purpose.  Attendees are encouraged to wear scrubs and nurses outfits.  There will be a bachelors auction of “Hot Docs.”  At the same time, the County’s mobile medical unit will be parked outside Urban Mo ’s for anyone who wants to get tested for syphilis. Additional information about the campaign is available at WeAllTest.com.

Family Health Centers of San Diego is a non profit family of community clinics that provides quality, affordable medical, dental, and mental health care to all, with a particular focus on low income and uninsured patients. More information about our services is available at FHCSD.org or by calling 619.515.2300.

Click here to view the whole story (in pdf format)