Sex disease cases cause concern

Nearly 3,500 young people in Cornwall have so far been screened

Tests in Cornwall have revealed a higher-than-average number of cases of the sexually transmitted disease chlamydia.

Health staff in the county are screening 500 young people a month as part of a government pilot scheme.

Chlamydia, which can be passed on through unprotected sex, can cause infertility.

Nearly 3,500 young people in Cornwall have so far been screened for chlamydia, with 16% testing positive - well above the national average of 10%.

Widespread testing

Cornwall was one of 10 areas chosen by the government for widespread testing.

Health staff have run campaigns to raise awareness of the disease, targeting colleges, pubs and clubs.

Most of the tests are carried out in family planning centres, GP surgeries and clinics.

It is hoped to introduce a testing kit which people in remote rural areas will be able to return by post.

Eventually, it is hoped to screen 12,000 young people a year in Cornwall.