The AIDS Healthcare Foundation offers medical services and care to over 127,000 people around the world, with its main initiative being the testing and diagnoses of AIDS, and identifying new treatments. Studies have shown that over 25 million people around the world don’t know that they are infected with HIV, which is where the foundation steps in – its programme boasts an astonishing one billion tests performed every year to help reduce the number of people infected unknowingly.
International Condom Day not only hopes to educate the public on safe sexual health practices but also intends on distributing free condoms around the world to promote this initiative. A non-profit organisation, the foundation has arranged a programme called the LOVE Condoms Campaign which hopes to create access for the public to 100 percent free condoms. This, they confirm, is the time to bring HIV prevention to the fore and encourage people to engage in safe and healthy sex, free from risk. Studies have shown that condoms are one of the most effective ways to prevent HIV and AIDS from spreading, as well as reducing the risk of other STD’s being caught.
The global events will take place in various locations, from Kenya to Mexico, where volunteers will distribute free condoms, in addition to hosting stage events and performances, and free testing for participants. The focus of the event is to raise awareness and enforce the message of the importance of safe sex. The campaign message is clear – Love yourself, Love your partner. International Condom Day will take place on Valentine’s weekend as the foundation felt this was the prime time to promote the message and encourage couples to get tested together.