Baby boomers run sexual health risks, survey finds

According to a poll conducted by the Canadian Liver Foundation, 16 percent of baby boomers - those aged 46 to 64 - have unprotected sex.

Among the unmarried, the poll found an even higher rate of unprotected sexual activity. Almost a third of single boomers reported having unprotected sex since turning 40.

The foundation further found that over half of all baby boomers - 56 percent - are not concerned about contracting sexually transmitted diseases, including 30 percent of the unmarried.

Of the diseases that worried those surveyed, the top three were HIV/AIDS, herpes and syphilis. Hepatitis B came fourth, even though, as the CLF notes, it is 10 times as infectious as HIV.

The foundation recommends protected sex, vaccination against hepatitis B and STD screening as part of a healthy sexual lifestyle. Individuals concerned about their sexual health but embarrassed to speak to a physician or pharmacist may consider investing in online testing services.

An estimated 38,000 new cases of hepatitis B occur in the U.S. each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.