LIVE UPDATES
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation Nigeria has advised Nigerians to always use condoms to prevent sexually transmitted illnesses.
AHF Nigeria published the appeal statement ahead of the 2024 International Condom Day, which is commemorated annually on February 13.
International Condom Day allows individuals all over the world to get free condoms and important information about safe condom use and other sexual health issues.
“On ICD 2024, we urge everyone worldwide to remember that condoms save lives and remain the best option for preventing HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, and unplanned pregnancies,” the statement partly read.
World Health Organisation says condoms have had a significant impact on the global AIDS pandemic: model simulations show that increased condom use since 1990 has averted an estimated 117 million new HIV infections.
WHO stated, “In 2020, 374 million new STI infections occurred globally among adults aged 15–49 with one of the four curable STIs: syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. The majority of these could be prevented with the correct use of condoms.
“98 percent of women whose male partners use male condoms correctly in every sex act over one year will be protected from unplanned pregnancy; when female condoms are used, 95 percent of them will be protected against unplanned pregnancy.
AHF Nigeria stated, “This is why, on ICD and beyond, the world must remember—condoms are safe, sexy, and essential to ending HIV/AIDS.
“Let’s commemorate by sharing the good news that condoms are still the best option for helping you and your partner keep intimate times safer and fun.”
The foundation said it will be commemorating the day with a walk in Benue state on February 13, where there would be public education on the need for correct and consistent use of the commodity, while free condoms shall be distributed to the people.
