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Better prevention, better services, better sexual health - The national strategy for sexual health and HIV

This first national strategy for sexual health and HIV addresses the growing prevalence of sexually transmitted infections and HIV and aims to modernise sexual health and HIV services. A clear link between sexual ill health, poverty and social exclusion is identified, as is the unequal impact of HIV on gay men and certain ethnic minorities. Variations in the quality of sexual health services across the country are unacceptable. The status of sexual health in England is outlined in chapter one. Chapter two outlines the strategy's aims and principles, namely to improve services, information and support, reduce inequalities and improve health. Measures for better prevention are then considered, followed by strategies to improve services. Aspects of commissioning and DH actions to support local services implement change are discussed. Appendices list members of the strategy steering group and the criteria for public consultations.

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• Sexual health