2005-09-04
A Safer Sex Campaign organized by the Department of Health (DH) with support of the Information Services Department was launched today (September 4) to promote the use of condoms for safer sex and to remove the taboo on the use of condoms in the community.
A new television API aiming to encourage members of the public to protect themselves and their sex partners from sexually transmitted infections and HIV by using a condom was publicly shown for the first time during the launching ceremony.
A DH spokesman said, "Sexual transmission is the commonest route of HIV spread in Hong Kong. As of second quarter of 2005, about 78 per cent of reported HIV infected cases in Hong Kong contracted the virus through sexual contact.
"Scientific evidence suggests that consistent and correct use of a condom can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV by 97% per cent. The Joint United Nations Programmes on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) stated that use of condoms was a critical element in a comprehensive, effective and sustainable approach to HIV prevention and treatment.
"A study conducted by the University of Hong Kong in 2002 revealed that only 24 per cent of Hong Kong Chinese population reported consistent use of condoms. Hence more efforts can be done in this aspect," he added.
The campaign, targeted at the sexually active adult population, will run from September through December this year, covering the World AIDS Day on December 1. It also aims to correct the misconception about the use of condoms in the community.
The spokesman said a series of media publicity, including TV and radio APIs, advertisements and banners on websites, public transports and outside government buildings, will be launched from today.
"These also include the new TV API and related radio programmes on safer sex. Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK) Radio 2 Programme 'Crazy & Happy' and Web Programme 'Teen Power' will include safer sex messages."
In addition, a condom distribution network will be established with joint efforts by universities, trade unions, Hospital Authority, private doctors, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, Leisure and Cultural Services Department and DH to improve the accessibility of condoms.
A sex education forum for teachers and social workers will be organized by RTHK's Sex Education Online, Hong Kong Professional Teacher's Union and DH's Red Ribbon Centre. Details can be accessed at http://www.27802211.com.
Officiating at the launching ceremony, held at the Open Piazza of Olympian City Phase II, were the Deputy Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food (Health), Miss Ho Shuk-yee, Susie, Controller, Centre for Health Protection of DH, Dr Leung Pak-yin, Legislative Councillor, Dr Kwok Ka-kei, and Head of Radio 2, RTHK, Mr Chan Yiu-wah.
Ends/Sunday, September 4, 2005