SOUTHAMPTON consultant has won international recognition for his work fighting sexually transmitted diseases.

Dr Raj Patel a sexual health expert at Solent NHS Trust, has become only the fifth person in 90 years to receive a gold medal from an international society that leads on research into STIs.

The consultant physician and senior lecturer in genitourinary and HIV medicine has won the International Union against Sexually Transmitted Infection gold medal.

The award was in recognition of his work in promoting international cooperation in the fight against HIV and STIs.

Dr Patel said: “It is a real honour receiving the prestigious gold award.

“I have always said STIs promote and facilitate the transmission of HIV and no country is immune from this deadly synergy.

“Controlling STI is a pivotal part of prevention and this requires partnership working right across the globe, supported by adoption of effective prevention programmes such as vaccines, promoting contraceptives and behavioural change.

“For instance, there is real need to ensure developing countries have access to early diagnoses structures that are accurate, quick and cost effective.”

Dr David Rowen, Solent NHS Trust clinical director for Sexual Health Services, added: “Raj has become only the fifth person to receive the prestigious gold medal, having been recognised by leading medical practitioners and researchers working to fight sexually transmitted infections.

“His success goes a long way to show anyone using our services that they are in very capable hands.”