SPREAD OF V.D.

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30761, 27 May 1965, Page 12

SPREAD OF V.D.

N.S.W. Doctors Alarmed

(N.Z. Press Assn.—Copyright) SYDNEY, May 26. The New South Wales branch of the Australian Medical Association has formed a venereal diseases committee to investigate the increasing incidence of venereal diseases.

The N.S.W. president of I the A.M.A., Dr. A. Murray, in announcing the action said the problem of V.D. was causing “growing concern” among doctors. “In the last 10 years gonorrhoea cases have doubled in this state,” Dr. Murray said. “This is particularly so among young people, where all types of venereal diseases are increasing.” Dr. Murray said he thought■ the problem was not just a medical one, and police and social workers had been invited to join the committee, which was formed two weeks ago.

He believed the factors of; increased promiscuity and the use of oral contraceptives were responsible for the spread of venereal disease.

“Social workers feel that the pill is readily available to anyone who wants it, and has contributed to the increased' promiscuity of our youngsters.

“We are alarmed by the present position, and hope that other states will set up similar committees.

“If they do, we will call a national conference in 12 months to air the problem. “It is something that should be brought out and displayed. The community’s ignorance in this field is staggering.”