HEALTH advisers are urging people to access sexual health services following World Aids Day yesterday.

The global awareness event saw public health consultants advise residents to ‘Act Aware’ and find out the facts about HIV.

In Blackburn with Darwen, the council, GPs and sexual health services are working together to encourage early diagnosis as timely treatment can mean a near-normal lifespan for someone with HIV.

According to new figures published by Public Health England, there were just over 100 people living with HIV and AIDS in Blackburn with Darwen in 2012.

A new screening programme is being delivered in Blackburn with Darwen led by the sexual health service, Brook.

Seven local practices have so far signed up to take part in the first phase of the project: St George’s Surgery, Audley Health Centre, Redlam Surgery, Waterside Surgery, Roman Road Health Centre and The Family Practice.

More are expected to be recruited from the start of the new year.

For more information about sexual health services in Blackburn with Darwen, visit www.refreshbwd.com/ your-health/sexual-health