**************************************
A Safer Sex Campaign organised by the Department of Health with the 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 (announcement in public interest) 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 launch ceremony.
A Department of Health spokesman said, "Sexual transmission is the commonest route of HIV spread in Hong Kong. At the second quarter of 2005, about 78% of reported HIV-infected cases in Hong Kong contracted the virus through sexual contact.
"Scientific evidence suggests that consistent and correct use of condoms can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV by 97%. The Joint United Nations Programmes on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) stated that the 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% of Hong Kong's Chinese population reported consistent use of condoms. Hence more effort can be made in this area," he added.
The campaign, targeted at the sexually active adult population, will run from September to 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 broadcasts, including TV and radio APIs, advertisements and banners on websites, public transport and outside government buildings, would 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 by universities, trade unions, the Hospital Authority, private doctors, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the Department of Health to improve the accessibility of condoms.
A sex education forum for teachers and social workers will be organised by RTHK's Sex Education Online, Hong Kong Professional Teacher's Union and the Department of Health's Red Ribbon Centre. Details can be accessed at http://www.27802211.com.
Officiating at the launch ceremony, held at the Open Piazza of Olympian City Phase II, were the Deputy Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food (Health), Miss Susie Ho Shuk-yee; Controller, Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health, 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
Issued at HKT 17:01
NNNN
