Access to the Technical Means of Prevention (Condoms)

• Pages: 34-37

Contenidos

• The Issue.
• Legal and Policy Considerations.
• Practice Examples.
• References.

Page 34

The Issue

Condom use is a critical element in a comprehensive, effective, and sustainable approach to HIV prevention. High quality, low cost condoms are effective as a barrier to contracting HIV. Research has shown that proper and consistent condom use greatly reduces the risk of HIV transmission. Laws have been enacted to ensure wide accessibility of condoms in sites such as night clubs, restaurants, airports and other transport stations, bathrooms, dormitories, supermarkets, pharmacies, and workplaces. Pervasive marketing and use of condoms complements other HIV prevention programs including family planning and reproductive health clinics, abstinence programs, and monogamy campaigns. Other distribution methods, such as mail order, internet order, and vending machines have the additional value of protecting the anonymity of condom buyers. However, some countries continue to perpetuate laws and policies that undermine access, use, and education about condoms.

Legal and Policy Considerations

National laws and policies around the world have recognized the importance of condoms to prevent HIV. For condoms to be safe and effective, they must be manufactured to the high international standards and quality assurance procedures established by WHO, UNFPA, and UNAIDS. Many countries have enacted laws and policies that guarantee quality standards for condoms. Furthermore, condoms must be universally readily available at either low or no cost, as this greatly increases the likelihood that they will be used. Some countries have taken steps to provide free condoms and sexual health education to specific population subgroups perceived to be at high risk for HIV transmission through sexual intercourse, such as sex workers. For condoms to succeed as a prevention tactic, they must be accompanied by education. Many countries have included education initiatives with their plans to distribute condoms. For example, Namibia's National Strategic Plan on HIV/AIDS includes two education initiatives related to its condom programs. These initiatives include information leaflets on how to properly put on and use a condom and training of local people to demonstrate the use of condoms to others.

Condom access may be limited by resource allocation decisions that fund other HIV prevention activities but not condoms. These decisions may respond to limitations dictated...