The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) is preparing for a world record attempt in sexually transmitted infections (STI) testing on Wednesday.
University officials said they hope to test 814 students at four locations on campus and set a world record for the most tests in one day at one location.
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Western University set the unofficial world record with 812 people this past February.
“Being a campus full of young adults, we are always trying to promote better health decisions, preventative health types of decisions,” Rita Hanoski, the U of S health education coordinator, said Monday.
“I think this sets a real positive example that students need to know their own health status and they’re willing to come and find out what their status is.”
The U of S event is being organized in partnership with the Sexual Health Centre Saskatoon, OUTSaskatoon and AIDS Saskatoon. The goal is “to not only to break a world record, but to increase awareness of the importance of testing for and promptly treating STIs,” according to officials.
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Fifth-year U of S student Kyle Moroziuk said he plans on taking part in the effort Wednesday and admitted that there can be a stigma on campus around STI testing.
“I have a few friends that are debating on coming to get tested because they don’t know if they want to have the people around them see,” Moroziuk said.
“I think it’s important because it not only protects yourself, but also the people you come in contact with as well and knowing your status is just imperative to help reduce the overall stigma.”
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